Smith Andrea - Love Plus One (G-Man Series) -

Love Plus One Book 2 – G-Man Series By Andrea M. Smith

Text copyright © 2013 by A.M. Smith. All rights reserved. Except as permitted under The U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of thi s publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior express, written consent of the author. Published By: Meatball Taster Publishing ISBN: 978-1-489-57079-6 All characters and events in this book are fictional; any resemblance to actual persons or events, living or dead, is purely coincidental. This book is intended for adult

readers only

Acknowledgement A special thanks to my FB and GR buddies and friends! Thanks to Brenda as always! Thank you, SueBee for the awesome cover! Thanks to JoJo, Marcie, Becky and Jill for the in-process feedback! Special thanks to Elizabeth Harper for the content editing/coaching - you rock! Thanks to Twinsie Talk for hosting the "Love Plus One" blog tour; and all those blog spots participating!

Table of Contents Acknowledgement Table of Contents CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 9 CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 12 CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15 CHAPTER 16 CHAPTER 17 CHAPTER 18 CHAPTER 19 CHAPTER 20 CHAPTER 21 CHAPTER 22 CHAPTER 23 CHAPTER 24 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 26 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 28 CHAPTER 29 CHAPTER 30 CHAPTER 31 CHAPTER 32

CHAPTER 33 CHAPTER 34 CHAPTER 35 CHAPTER 36 CHAPTER 37 CHAPTER 38 CHAPTER 39 CHAPTER 40 CHAPTER 41 CHAPTER 42 CHAPTER 43 CHAPTER 44 CHAPTER 45 CHAPTER 46 CHAPTER 47 CHAPTER 48 CHAPTER 49 CHAPTER 50

CHAPTER 51 CHAPTER 51 EPILOGUE

CHAPTER 1 My mother’s wedding and the reception following it had gone well. Mom looked happier than I had ever seen her. It was a bittersweet day for me since I had witnessed all those years of her and Daddy in what now, was so apparently, a loveless marriage. I chalked it up to my own naivety and inexperience with relationships. Eric Slater was in love with my mother; my mother was in love with Eric Slater. It was as simple as that. Though anyone knowing how it was these two found each other would hardly have deemed it simple. It had actually been

quite complicated. My mother and father’s seemingly perfect marriage and life in suburbia had been a sham. I had worried about them when I started my freshman year away at college. I knew that Mom devoted her time and efforts to Daddy and me. I knew she needed something of her own. I had nagged her before I left to develop some interests, find something to call her own. Much to my surprise, she did just that. Over the course of my first year at Cornell, my visits home had been few and far between. I didn’t see Mom again until I was home for Christmas that year. Boy, had she changed; not only in

looks, but her demeanor as well. I had seen something in her that had not been present before: independence and selfassurance. They both looked great on her. I knew that Daddy had been spending even more time away from home trying to oversee the East coast region of Banion Pharmaceuticals expansion. Banion Pharmaceuticals had been founded by my great-grandfather more than a half-century before. My mother was the only child and sole heir to that legacy. My father had been graced with a high-level position as a vice-president courtesy of my granddaddy, who had retired several years prior.

That was a tough year for all of us as I finally began to see the tears in their relationship; their marriage that was both fragile and fake. I had suspected over the years that their marriage was different from those of my friends’ parents. It was lacking in so many ways. Still, I knew that my mother had been raised by her mother to be somewhat subservient to the ‘man of the house’. As much as I loved my father, I knew that when and if the time came, I would do things differently than my mother and my grandmother before me. That is where it became so complicated.

I loved my father so much that I had turned a blind eye from things I should have seen. I knew that he loved me. I suspected he loved me more than my mother, if in fact, he loved her at all. I had become skeptical of his love the summer after my freshman year when I was interning at the Banion corporate office and manufacturing facility in our hometown of Indianapolis. I returned from Cornell at the end of May that year for summer break. My mother hit me with the news that I had a brother or sister on the way. I was thrilled about it, hoping perhaps their lackluster marriage had finally taken a turn for the best.

Shortly after, I observed they had separate bedrooms. Mom tried to pass it off as being because of a ‘problematic’ pregnancy, but I had my doubts, and I kept quiet. I figured whatever was going on was their business. I started my internship at Banion and immediately made a friend. He was a hottie working there for the summer during his hiatus from Purdue; a guy by the name of Eric Slater. That’s right, my step-father to be. There were more surprises to come. My father had a not-so-discreet relationship going with his executive assistant, Susanne. When I brought this to my mother’s

attention a short time later, she seemed totally undisturbed by it. I finally got the truth from her. It seems that my mother and father did not love each other; they probably never had. My mother was carrying another man’s child, who she admittedly loved, however, was not certain that he loved her. Things only got worse from that point on. As it turned out, my father was involved in some sort of criminal network involving drug trafficking, racketeering, money laundering, to name just a few. My colleague, Eric Slater, turned out to be an undercover Fed, along with the

love of my mother’s life and father of her unborn child. My mother had met him while living her secret life as a pole dancer at a Gentleman’s Club in Indianapolis. That’s right, a pole dancer. By the end of the summer, I wished I hadn’t left Ithaca to come home at all. Home wasn’t home anymore. It seemed as if I had been living in a house of secrets and lies. When I returned to Cornell that fall to start my sophomore year, I returned as a totally different person. My father had split to avoid prosecution, taking his paramour, Susanne, with him. My mother had been held hostage

briefly by a biker that threatened to slit her throat if she didn’t help him find the stash of drugs that the club had paid for but had not been delivered by my father’s assistant. I spent most of the time before going back to Cornell with my grandparents. That is when I met Adam. He lived in the same condo complex as my grandparents. He had helped me cope during that period. The relationship with Adam had given me hope. It was one I thought would grow and flourish. He had become my best friend. I had always heard that starting as friends is a great way to build a solid foundation for love. Unfortunately, that was not in the cards

once again, for me. I downed the rest of my champagne as the crowd from the reception started to dwindle down. My grandparents had left, kissing me good-bye so that they could get my baby brother, Bryce, back to the house and in bed for the night. They were staying at Mom and Eric’s while they took a twoweek cruise. I had told Grandma I would catch a ride home with someone, but it was early, and I wasn’t ready to leave just yet. I wouldn’t mind catching a good buzz. I deserved to feel a little high and giddy after the fucked-up year and a half

I had gone through. I grabbed another flute of champagne, as the waiter went by on his way to the kitchen. We had just sent Slate (as I preferred to call him) and Mom away with the full barrage of rice and cheering. I was going to spend the night at their house and then head back to Charlottesville tomorrow afternoon. I was a junior at University of Virginia studying Economics. Whoopee I giggled to myself as the bubbly tickled my tongue going down. Cool and smooth. “Can I join this party?” I looked up into the amused green eyes of Taz.

Taz Matthews was an agent for the FBI, same as Slate. They were also best friends. He was totally hot with his sandy brown hair and assortment of tats. Speaking of cool and smooth. “Sure, Taz. Cop a squat,” I replied, giggling, waving my hand to the empty chair beside mine. He gave a slight chuckle, setting down a glass containing ice and an auburn-colored liquid on the table, sliding into the seat. I had to admit Taz looked totally hot in the black tuxedo he was wearing. Actually, to be honest, Taz looked “hawt” in about anything. “You know,” he said, “that

champagne is going to give you a kickass headache; it’s the sugar content. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink straight alcohol with water or over ice; no sugary mixers with it.” “Well, Taz, thank you for the advice, although it comes a bit late,” I replied with a smile, downing the rest of the bubbly. Several seconds later an unexpected belch surfaced, which I found thoroughly amusing. “So,” he said, laughing at my uncouthness, “no date?” “Nope,” I said, beckoning to the waiter who promptly returned with a full flute. “What about you?”

“Same here,” he replied, taking a swig of his drink. “I thought you had some college guy in your knickers last year.” Hardly in my knickers. “Oh. You must be referring to Adam. Ancient history.” “I’m sorry,” he said not sounding the least bit sincere. “We’re still friends,” I replied, sipping my fresh flute of champagne. “That’s always nice when it ends on a friendly note, I guess. Though I really wouldn’t know,” he said with a shrug. “Most of the chicks in my past give a parting request consisting of two words.”

“Which are?” “Don’t call.” For some reason, I found this hilariously funny. I slapped my hand against the table, laughing loudly. “Hey,” he said, looking around, “how are you getting home? You aren’t thinking about driving are you?” “No,” I said as if that should have been obvious to Mr. G-man Taz. “I’ll find a ride.” “How about if I get you home now? I think you’ve probably had enough to drink, Lindsey. Are you even of legal age yet?” “Oh, God, please don’t go all Slate on me now, okay? I am not a baby, Taz.

I’m nearly twenty-one so what the hell?” “I can see that, baby, but as the Best Man, I do have certain responsibilities and obligations toward the Maid of Honor.” Oh really? “Hmm,” I said using a throaty, flirtatious voice. “Do tell?” “I need to make sure that I get my best buddy’s step-daughter home safe and sound, that’s what I’m telling you.” “You’re a real buzz-kill, Taz. I’ve had a screwed-up couple of years, and by God, I’d like to party for once. If you’re not going to party with me, than just split, okay?” I downed the rest of my champagne and stood up fully intending to find

another full glass. I staggered toward the back bar; stopping to take my heels off. There. Much better. I was nearly to the bar when I felt a strong hand grip my arm, turning me around. “Come on,” Taz said, an authoritative edge now present in his voice. “You’ve had enough and I am taking you home.” I tried to pull away from him without making a scene in front of the scattering of guests that still remained. He was too strong. His grip remained firmly planted on me until he helped me locate my coat in the vestibule. As I started to walk towards the exit

door, once again I was pulled back. “How about we put your shoes on, huh?” “Oh, yeah,” I laughed, feeling buzzed and sheepish. “I guess that would help.” I was having difficulty maintaining my balance while standing next to him and trying to slip my shoes on my feet. “Here,” he directed, “hold onto my shoulders.” I did as instructed, lifting one foot and then the other while he slipped my heels on each foot. “Ready, Cinderella?” I nodded. Damn, he had a very disarming smile; charming and disarming. Hey, I made a rhyme!

Charming and disarming; charming and disarming - God I’m fucked up! Taz practically carried me upright to his truck. What was with all of these G-Men and their macho pick-up trucks? Slate had one; Taz had a bigger one. Somehow, that caught me as being funny. I decided I would share that bit of humor with Taz. “Hey, Taz,” I said, trying my best not to slur, “I noticed yours is bigger than Slate’s.” I nodded towards his truck, giggling as he hoisted me up into the cab. “Uh huh,” he replied, taking a moment to fasten my seat belt around me before shutting the passenger door. His

truck was immaculate. He circled around and slid into the driver’s seat within moments. Just as we pulled out onto the street, things were starting a slow spin. Oh, shit. There was no freaking way I was going to puke in front of this fine, fine man. I would simply think of something else, take my mind off of the roiling in my stomach and the sudden salivating I was experiencing. Less than a minute later, I realized I was going to heave. “Can you roll the window down?” I asked, as I started to unceremoniously gag. “Oh, Christ,” he said, hitting the button to power the passenger side

window down. It was too late. I projectile vomited champagne along with my food selection from the wedding buffet down the front of me and all over the dashboard of his sparkling clean truck. Several rounds later I was empty. I continued to dry heave as Taz made haste to get me somewhere. I knew it wasn’t Mom and Slate’s house; we hadn’t driven far enough. He pulled the truck over to the curb and got out, circling around to open the passenger side door for me. I was covered in vomit. I had never felt so humiliated in all of my life. I could never, ever show my

face to him again. I knew that he was going to be royally pissed at me for dousing the interior of his pristine truck. It had smelled almost brand new before I heaved. Now it smelled pure funky. To my surprise he wasn’t furious; he wasn’t even pissed. “Come on, sweetheart,” he said gently, reaching in and trying to find a place on me that wasn’t covered in vomit that he could grip. “Let’s get you inside and cleaned up, okay?” “I’m really sorry, Taz,” I whined, sniffing the residual vomit back into my nose where it had evidently exited as well. “I’ll clean up your truck if you want.” “No worries,” he said. “That can

wait; we have to get you cleaned up. I’m not taking you home like this.” “Where are we?” It had finally dawned on me to ask. “My place,” he said. “We are going to get you out of these clothes and into the shower. I’ll find something for you to wear.” Oh my. Taz lived in a duplex. His apartment was on the whole bottom floor which was good because I doubted very much if I could have managed to climb any steps. He helped me up onto the porch and held me up with one arm, while he unlocked his front door. There was

already a light on in his living room which was surprisingly clean and decorated in masculine good taste. “Wow,” I said. “This is really nice, Taz.” “Glad you like it, sweetheart. Let’s head down this hallway to the bathroom, okay?” “Okay, Taz. Whatever you say,” I said with a giggle. True to his word, his bathroom was on the right at the end of the wide hallway. It was huge. He left me standing against the wall while he rolled the sleeves up on the jacket of his tuxedo. He reached into the shower and started the water to get the temperature warm.

I felt myself slide down the wall, my legs now propped out in front of me. I was certain I looked like a limp, very puked-on rag doll. I could only imagine. I felt Taz lift me and start unsnapping and unzipping my bridesmaid gown. I didn’t feel embarrassed about him seeing me. It was probably because I was still loaded. He told me when to raise my arms, when to lower them, when to turn around. In a matter of moments, I was stripped naked and underneath the warm, pulsating water of his shower. Taz had removed his jacket and was lathering up a bath sponge, washing me

from top to bottom. God - this felt really, really good. He poured shampoo onto my scalp and instructed me to massage it in. I did the best that I could under the circumstances. Once I was thoroughly rinsed, he shut the water off and helped me out, wrapping a big, fluffy towel around me. “Can you stand here for just a minute while I get some clean clothes for you?” “Uh huh,” I nodded, clutching the towel around me for warmth. When he returned, he handed me a pair of sweats with a hoodie shirt. The shirt was grey and had black lettering. It read, ‘F B I’. How totally cool was that? He helped me dress.

Once dressed, I ran my fingers through my damp hair, trying to untangle it. “Here,” he said, handing me a comb. I took it from him and started running it through my hair. “Here’s a new toothbrush. Please use it.” He picked up the heap of puked-on clothes piled on the floor and exited the bathroom with them. I brushed and gargled. I combed my hair out and finally managed to take a peek at myself in the mirror. Some semblance of soberness was starting to return. Not enough to make me want to be anywhere but here though.

I gargled one more time for good measure. I opened the large medicine chest over the sink to see if I could locate a bottle of ibuprofen or any other type of pain-killer. I was fairly certain a headache was to follow. I couldn’t locate any type of painkiller, but there was a wide assortment of Magnum® condoms. There were heavy-duty, neon glowin-the dark, large ‘reservoir’ for heavy loads (Oh my!) ribbed-for-her-pleasure, sheepskin, flavored (Really?) lubricated, non-lubricated. My head was starting to spin reading all of the various descriptions. I quickly slammed the door

to the medicine cabinet shut. Once I left the bathroom, I padded down the long, hardwood floor of the main hallway looking for Taz. He was in a bedroom off of the living room, making up the bed with clean sheets and pillowcases. “Feeling a little better?” he asked. “A teeny bit. I’m really sorry, Taz. I am so embarrassed. I don’t know what got into me.” “Way too much alcohol, sweetheart. Don’t worry about it. It happens to the best of us. Something about having a shitty couple of years, huh?” “Oh, that,” I said with a shrug. “I guess I was hosting my own little pity party. Sorry, I drug you down with me.”

“Hey,” he said, “I know what you’ve been through, Lindsey. It’s got to be tough on you. How about you climb into my spare bed here and get a good night’s rest, okay?” “This isn’t your bed?” “No,” he said with a grin. “My bed is much bigger. And it’s in another room.” “Thanks for cleaning me up, Taz,” I remarked, now feeling the blush that was absent while he bathed me. “It was my pleasure, sweetheart.” “Can I ask you something?” “Yep.” “What is your real name?” It had struck me after all of this time

that I had never heard anyone refer to him as anything other than ‘Taz’.” “Hmm,” he said, giving me an ornery look, “I don’t share that information with a lot of people, you know? I guess I can make an exception for you. It’s Trace,” he said. “Trace,” I repeated, liking the way it sounded on my tongue. “Thanks, Trace.” CHAPTER 2 When I awoke the following morning, I stretched trying to work out the kinks of having slept in a strange bed. Immediately, my chest felt as if an elephant had been sitting on it all night.

My mind was fuzzy. The room where sunlight was streaming was unrecognizable. Then the events of the previous evening came quickly flooding over me. My ribs and chest ached because of the wretching I had done. Oh shit! I remembered there was alcohol, lots of it. I recalled spewing all over Taz’s truck. He had undressed me and put me in the shower, cleaning me up. I looked down at the clothes I was wearing; they were huge on me but clean and comfortable. They were Taz’s. I mean Trace’s. I smiled, remembering that he had

shared his given name with me: Trace. Trace Matthews. He had been totally sweet to me, a gentleman to be sure. I blushed under the sheets of the bed in his guest room. I looked around. A glass of water and a bottle of Advil had been placed on the nightstand next to the bed. Taz was thoughtful, too. My head was fine though. I sat up, swinging my legs over the side of the bed and quickly realized my head was not fine. It felt like a hundred thunderous horses were pounding their hooves inside of it. Ouch! I picked up the bottle of Advil, removing a couple of tablets and quickly washed them down with the full glass of

water. Somewhere, I could hear the sound of dishes clattering together. The smell of freshly-brewed coffee caught my attention. My stomach had a gnawing ache in it from being totally empty. I slowly raised myself up off of the bed and poised myself to face the man who had seen me naked and hadn’t yelled at me for leaving my DNA all over the inside of his truck. I quietly made my way down the hallway to the end where I could now smell bacon cooking. Taz was there at the stove turning the bacon. He was wearing black tee shirt

that had the sleeves ripped off. It accentuated his muscular chest and shoulders. His jeans were faded and ripped, hanging low on his narrow hips. “Good morning,” I said, trying to sound normal but my voice croaked. Damn! My throat hurt from the retching. “Hey, baby girl,” he said, flashing me a dazzling smile. “I see you survived the night no worse for the wear.” “Barely,” I said, hurriedly taking a seat at his kitchen table afraid my legs would give out. Despite the hangover, Taz unnerved me. There was something about him, something I hadn’t noticed before. I had always thought he was hot, but this was different. He was sexy but soulful; a

very heady combination. What the hell was I doing? He was probably as old as Slate. “Coffee?” “Yes, please,” I said, my voice now sounding like a husky whisper. I watched as he pulled a coffee mug from the cupboard and filled it. I was checking him out beneath my lashes. Damn, he had a nice ass. His stomach was as flat as a washboard. “Sugar?” “What?” “Would you like sugar in your coffee?” “Oh - uh, no. Just black.” “Here you go, drink up.”

I thanked him as I took the mug in both hands, raising it up to my lips. Umm, it tasted good. He liked it strong, same as me. “Hungry?” he asked, heading back to the stove where he had scrambled eggs going. “I am starving,” I admitted, blushing for some unknown reason. “I’ll bet,” he laughed. He had a nice laugh; it was genuine. “You couldn’t have had anything left in your stomach. It’s all over the inside of my truck.” “Oh, God, Taz. I’ll clean it as soon as I finish eating.” “Now, that doesn’t sound like a plan to me, baby girl,” he said with a wink.

“I’ve taken care of it anyway.” “You have?” “Yep. Got up early to run to the store for breakfast items. I took it to the car wash. It’s all good.” He set a plate of eggs and bacon in front of me. It looked and smelled great. I couldn’t take my eyes off of him as he returned to serve a plate up for himself. His hair was a sandy brown; thick and tousled like he had just rolled out of bed. He had gorgeous green eyes and some stubble going on that made his perfectly chiseled features that much more appealing. He wore an earring that was sexy. His right arm was beautifully tattooed from his shoulder to his elbow. He sat

across from me and started digging in to his eggs. “Hold old are you, Taz?” He looked up, raising his coffee mug to those magnificent lips and taking a drink. “Twenty-eight; will hit twenty-nine next month,” he said. “Yeah, yeah - I know, I’m an old man.” “Hardly,” I laughed. “I thought maybe you were the same age as Slate. I mean, you two being good friends and all.” “Oh, that’s because we went through the academy in Quantico together. Slate did an extra stint in the military first. I only did one tour in the army. Slate did

two.” “Do you like being in the FBI?” “I wouldn’t do anything else,” he replied. “Is it always dangerous?” “No, not really. I like the investigative, undercover part. It’s like being in a different movie with each new case you’re on. I love the different personas. The last stint as a biker lasted for a few years. I will always ride. It has become sort of who I am, I guess.” “You enjoyed playing the biker?” “Yeah. I guess I did. Slate didn’t care for it though.” “That was certainly a dangerous bunch of heathens,” I said, shivering. I couldn’t imagine what my mother

had been put through those several hours she had been held hostage by the biker named ‘Slash.’ “It had its perks,” he said, a slow grin spreading across his handsome face. He didn’t elaborate. “I suppose it pays really well since you are always at risk of being hurt or killed.” He shrugged, chewing on a piece of bacon. “I make out alright. It doesn’t pay what you will be making once you get out of school and work for Banion. It’s not really about the money for me. I live for the job satisfaction.” I gave what he said some thought. It

was difficult for me to consider that something other than money was a major consideration for a career choice. But then, I had been raised watching my father climb to a high-level position within the company. That wasn’t necessarily a good comparison, I realized. “So what about you, Lindsey?” “What about me?” I asked, taking another sip of my coffee. “What is your major?” “Economics,” I said, giving him a slight eye roll. “Hey, if that’s what you like, there’s nothing wrong with that.” “Did you go to college?” “I did,” he said, nodding his head.

“Still do.” “You do?” “Yep. I’m working on my Masters of Psychology. I want to get into the Behavioral Analysis Unit eventually.” “You mean like what those agents do on the television show, ‘Criminal Minds’?” “Yep,” he said, with a grin. “That’s my dream. Let me guess. You think Dr. Reid is hot, right?” He was grinning at me, giving me a wink. It was obvious he regarded me as some immature, giggly teenager. “Hardly,” I said, my tone having a hint of annoyance in it. “I haven’t done celebrity crushes since sixth grade.”

“Ohhh - my bad there, sweetheart. Didn’t mean to piss you off.” He was still fucking with me in his teasingly, big brother sort of way. “Actually, for the record, Shemar Moore, a.k.a. Derek Morgan is more to my liking, as hotties go.” He stopped sipping his coffee and looked over at me, a smile playing on his lips. “So, when and where do you go to school?” I asked. “I do evenings at Georgetown,” he said. “Hmm, impressive,” I remarked. A couple of my local friends attended Georgetown. It was a

prestigious school, every bit as impressive as Cornell had been for me. Taz had finished his breakfast and started clearing the table. “Here, let me,” I said, taking the dishes from him. “You’ve been the perfect host. Let me clean up in here.” “You won’t get any argument from me on that,” he said. “I need to make a couple of phone calls then I’ll run you home, how’s that?” “Fine,” I said, rinsing the dishes preparing to load them into the dishwasher. I was flustered. Why was I flustered? It was just Taz; the same Taz that I had seen more than a dozen times over the past year. Why was he suddenly

having this effect on me? Part of it was the fact that Taz seemed to regard me as some type of a college coed, which of course I was; but more like someone in a different generation than him. So what? I was eight or nine years younger. That was nothing from my perspective. Perhaps he had lived longer than me, had more life experiences than I have had, that didn’t mean he could disregard the fact that I was a woman, not some drooling teenager for Chrissake. He reappeared in the kitchen just as I had finished up. He was watching me closely now, as if perhaps he was seeing

me differently than he had before. “You ready?” “Yep,” I answered. “Let me grab my stuff.” “Oh, your dress is in a garbage bag out back, you know, the smell and all.” Oh God - did he have to say it like that? “You can just put it out with the trash,” I said, turning to walk down the hall. “It’s not like I’ll ever wear it again.” The twenty-minute drive to Mom and Slate’s was mostly spent in silence. His truck had been thoroughly cleaned. I noticed some Febreeze air freshener clips had been attached to the vents on the dashboard where the heat came out.

“So, what happened between you and Adam?” he asked, obviously uncomfortable with the silence. “It just didn’t work out,” I replied. “We are still friends. We talk now and then. He has moved on, but it's okay.” “Ahh,” he said with a nod, “he found another chick, huh? That’s rough I guess.” “Not really. He found another dude,” I clarified, watching for his reaction from my peripheral vision. I saw his head turn quickly to look over at me. “Really?” “Yep. He said he had been in denial. I guess being around me sealed the deal

prompting him right out of his denial.” “Oh shit, Lindsey. I’m sorry for nosing into your business. I didn’t mean to.” “It’s fine,” I said. “In some ways, I guess I almost feel better that it wasn’t another chick. I can’t blame myself.” “Why would you ever do that? You’re a cute kid. You must know that.” Shit! Did he just refer to me as a ‘kid’? “It’s fine, Taz. I’m not fishing for compliments from you.” He patted my knee as if consoling me. For the love of Christ I am getting tired of this. I smiled over at him, biding my time.

We pulled up in front of the house several minutes later. It was certainly not the mansion we had lived in while in Indianapolis, that was for sure. Mom loved it though. It was what she had dreamt of she told me, complete with a white picket fence around the front. It was a large cape cod with a full basement. It had a nice size yard, a bit less than an acre. It was just outside of the city limits. We could see our neighbors down the road on both sides. My grandparents’ car was pulled up in the driveway. It was not quite noon. Even they didn’t treat me as if I still needed a curfew. Taz put his truck into park and

looked over at me. “Would you like for me to go in and explain to your grandparents what happened last night; that you were safe with me? I hadn’t thought about calling them earlier. I probably should have.” “I don’t think so,” I snapped, unbuckling my seat belt, and opening the door to the truck. “Jesus Christ, Taz, I’m not a freaking child.” I jumped down from the cab of his truck. It would have been a great exit had the strap of my purse not gotten caught around the gear shifter on the center console. Crap! “Hold up,” he said, smirking.

He lifted my purse strap up and over the shifter and picked it up, getting out of the truck to come around to my side and hand it to me. I grabbed it from him, turning to head up to the house. “Thanks for the lift,” I called back to him. “Whoa, wait a minute,” he said, calling after me. I felt his hand on my shoulder, gently pulling me back so that I would stop. “Lindsey, what the hell? I didn’t mean to insult you, sweetheart. I know you’re not a child. I just wasn’t sure if you would catch shit from your grandparents. You know how old people

can be.” “Unfortunately, I’m finding out,” I said with a smirk of my own. “I’m almost twenty-one, Taz. When my mother was twenty-one, she was raising a four-year-old. Would you have treated her like that?” “So, what’s your point?” I actually had no clue as to what the point of that was. I just knew that he needed to put it into perspective. I may not be the mother of a four-year-old, but by God, I wasn’t a child either. “I guess I would just prefer that you recognize that I am a woman,” I replied simply. “I appreciate everything you did for me, Taz. I know that I should have behaved more maturely at the

reception.” He was studying me now with those gorgeous, green bedroom eyes of his. His lash line was so dark his eyes looked as if they had mascara on them. I knew that they didn’t. He simply had eyelashes that any woman would die for; eyelashes undeserving of a man. I wasn’t sure what prompted me to do what I did next. I didn’t stop to think about it, or to debate it before I did it. I walked closer to him, standing on my tip toes. I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling his head down towards my face. My lips found his and I kissed him. I prayed he wouldn’t pull back. He didn’t

pull back. He stood there for a moment statuesque-like. I worked harder. I might still be a virgin, but by God, I had learned some things along the way. Kissing was one of them. I had been told by a few guys that I was a great kisser. We would see. I moved my lips on his, my tongue lightly traced his bottom one. His lips started responding to mine, first slowly, then very sensually. I parted my lips and his tongue found mine. He pulled me in closer now, planting his fingers into my short, spiky hair. Our kiss grew more arduous. I lowered my hands to his muscular back, digging my long fingernails into him. I felt his hardness against me.

Dear Lord! I moaned softly with the realization that yes, this man was affected by me and I was totally affected by him. “Mmm,” he moaned, finally pulling away from me. “Lindsey, I don’t think this is a good -” I gave him a sparkling smile as I threw my purse over my shoulder. “Thanks again for the lift, Trace.” My eyes lowered to his very stiff hard-on, then flickered upward to his face. I gave him a wink then turned towards the house. I traipsed up the sidewalk to the front door, trying to make sure his too large sweats didn’t fall to my ankles

while I wore the only shoes I had: my four-inch heels from the wedding. I could feel his gaze burning a hole through my backside. Mission accomplished.

CHAPTER 3 (Taz) Jesus Christ! What was that about? The whole way back to my place I tried like hell to push the vision, the feel, and the scent of Lindsey from my mind. My hard-on was making that very difficult to accomplish. What had she been thinking coming on to me like that right there in the front yard of her home? Shit! Her grandparents had probably been watching out the window. They probably thought she had spent the night with me. Technically, she had, but not in the way

that their dirty minds were playing it. Hell, they were probably grilling her right now about it. Then there was the matter of Slate. He was like a brother to me but I knew damn well he wouldn’t appreciate me so much as thinking the wrong thoughts where Lindsey was concerned. He was taking this whole step-parent thing very seriously. I thought back to the previous night when I had to strip her naked to get her into the shower and clean her up. I was thankful in her drunken state she hadn’t seen just how hard my cock had been for her then. Geez!

I imagined she was getting plenty of that college cock being the way she looked. Perky little ass, nice full tits, her pussy shaved except for a narrow little landing strip at the crack. I knew what I had wanted to land there last night. I thought about my tongue tracing that landing strip and then going into a full dive. Stop it, Taz my inner voice said. Despite the difference in age, she is not your type of chick. She eventually would settle down with a nine-to-fiver that left for work in an Armani suit every morning, played golf on weekends at the club, and gave her suburban sex two to three nights a

week. I chuckled out loud as I pulled my truck into the garage at home. Little Miss Co-ed would definitely not be in to the type of play that I enjoyed. Not one little bit. Still, it might be fun to have a tussle with her just once to teach her a lesson about randomly kissing a dude she knows nothing about. I needed to brush all thoughts of sweet, sexy little Lindsey from my mind. I had three chapters to study this afternoon for a major exam tomorrow night at school. I hadn’t cracked a book in several days. It wasn’t like me to backburner my studies. They were important. They were going to get me where I wanted to be within the agency.

As I came around the side of the house from the backyard to the front porch, I suddenly realized I wouldn’t be cracking that book for at least a couple of hours. “Hey, Taz,” Roxie greeted me, perched up on the railing of the porch seductively. “I was beginning to think you’d never get home. Rough night?” “Nothing I couldn’t handle, babe,” I said giving her a smile. Oh yeah. The timing is perfect. I had been fighting off this hard-on since Lindsey had kissed me and pressed that sexy little body of hers up against me. I unlocked the door, and Roxie

followed me inside. She was the perfect chick for me. There was nothing high maintenance about Roxie. She worked as a nail technician at the mall. She loved sex of any caliber. She didn’t whine about where “this or that” was going, or when I was going to call next. We just took it as it came. Roxy was a few years older than me. She was probably around the same age as Slate. I had known her since right before I graduated from the academy in Quantico, which was five years ago. We had met at a night club called “Run Amuck” in Quantico. Roxy had a thing for “G-Men” as she called us. Slate had done her first. Naturally all

the chicks gravitated to Slate with his dark, rugged looks. They liked his swagger is how Roxie explained it to me. Whatever. After that, Slate wanted no part of her. He claimed she “howled” like a coyote when she came, and it drove him nuts. I had no particular problem with that, being as vocal as I tend to be. In fact, I kind of like novelty shit like that. I met up with her a couple of weeks after that at the club. We drank, danced a bit and then headed to her place. I typically don’t like chicks knowing where I crash until I’m certain they aren’t bona fide sociopaths. I’ve had my

share of run-ins with crazy bitches that like to stalk. Roxie and I had pulled a pretty interesting all-nighter at her place. The howling wasn’t enough to turn me off. I liked the assortment of toys she liked to bring to the bed. I made damn sure none of them went into me though. I don’t take those kinds of risks with my health. Roxie loved the fact that my cock had never been circumcised. She said it had a more threatening look to it that way. She sure as hell knew how to suck it. She was a swallower too, which always takes a chick up a couple of notches in my book. I looked at her now, taking her jacket off and tossing it on the chair in the

living room. She wasn’t half as sexy as Lindsey, but she would do. “Ready?” I asked as I kicked my shoes off onto the living room floor. She nodded and followed behind me to my bedroom. I hadn’t bothered to make up my bed yet. The sheets, blankets and bedspread were still all tangled in knots from my restless night. I hadn’t been able to get the vision of Lindsey out of my mind after I had tucked her safely away in the guest room. I must have debated for an hour as to whether I should creep in to where she was sleeping to check on her. Hell, I knew if I did that I would

have been hard pressed to leave it at that. I would have been sorely tempted to crawl under the sheets with her and fuck her like she’d never been fucked before. I was pulling my tee shirt up over my head. “Did you bring your toys?” I asked Roxie. “Of course,” she said, giving me one of her naughty little smiles. “You know I don’t leave home without them, Taz.” “Let’s get to it then,” I said smiling, pulling Roxie over to stand before me next to the bed. I was going to get this blasted hard-on relieved one way or the other. “There is one thing you need to

know, babe,” I said, as she was slipping out of her tight jeans. She stood there, tall, slender with coal black hair that fell to her waist looking at me. “What is it, Taz?” “I am going to thoroughly fuck you this afternoon. Just so you know, I will be thinking about someone else when I do.” She shrugged and nodded. I knew she would be okay with it. I felt she needed to be forewarned though since I get pretty vocal when I’m fucking a chick. She finished unpacking her leather satchel of toys we used, while I pulled

several condom packets out of my nightstand drawer. Oh yeah; my studies were definitely going to be temporarily delayed this afternoon.

CHAPTER 4 I had just finished classes for the afternoon and was on my way back to the apartment I shared with two other students when my cell phone rang. It was Mom. She and Slate had returned from their cruise about a week ago. She had phoned me right away, telling me how exciting it had been to see all of those Caribbean islands. She followed up by emailing me about a zillion pictures of her trip. “Hi, Mom,” I answered on my headset. “Hey, Lindsey, just checking to make

sure that you are still going to be here tomorrow evening, as planned.” “Yep,” I answered. “I’ll hit the road right after my last class.” “Great,” she said. I could almost feel her smiling from the other end. “Your grandparents are traveling to Florida so they won’t be here with us this Thanksgiving; it will just be the four of us.” “What about Slate’s mom?” “No, Katy can’t get away again, what with spending that week here before the wedding. She doesn’t have too many people she can totally depend on to take care of the restaurant.”

“I promise I will be there by four o’clock to start helping you with the preparations, Mom. I know how crazy you get when you cook for the holidays.” “Thanks honey. I appreciate it. Bryce is just at that ‘into everything’ stage so I can surely use your help. Oh, and I think Eric is going to ask Taz to join us for Thanksgiving dinner so I guess that makes five of us.” “Oh?” “Yes. Taz’s family lives out in California somewhere so he doesn’t get back there often. You don’t have a problem with that, do you?” “No, Mom. Why would you ask that?”

“Well, I know he can be a little rough around the edges, I just wasn’t sure if that would make you uncomfortable.” “Not at all, Mom,” I lied. “Besides that, I’m kind of used to that with Slate.” “Hey,” she said, laughing, “oh, never mind. I guess you do have a point. Listen, I needed to ask if you have ---.” “No, Mom,” I replied, cutting her off, “I haven’t heard a thing from Daddy. You know that I would tell you if I had, right?” “I’m sorry, sweetie. I know I continue to ask that question. I guess I’m not totally at ease about all of that, even now. I just wish we knew for sure that

we were free of it all.” The subject of my father was still a very painful one for me. Aside from the brief letter he had commissioned someone to mail for him after he left the country, there had been nothing. I never would have dreamed he could have deserted me that way with no second thought. “Hey, Mom, I’m pulling into the parking garage at my apartment so I’m going to lose the signal. I will see you late tomorrow afternoon.” “Okay, Lindsey. Drive carefully.” I let myself into the apartment. Darcy was already home, sprawled out on the sofa, getting her daily fix of the Jerry Springer show with a bag of

Cheetos resting on her firm, flat belly. “Hey, Darce,” I greeted, kicking the door to the apartment shut behind me. My arms were loaded down with my books. The strap on my back pack had broken earlier in the day. “Hey Linds,” she answered, muting the television. “What the hell happened to your back pack?” “Strap broke due to heavy load. I bring my textbooks home.” “Oh, don’t start with me,” she laughed, tossing a Cheeto at me. “Just cause you’ve got that ‘studious’ thing going on 24/7 doesn’t mean the rest of us have to. My back pack is four years old and looks new.”

“My point exactly,” I replied, dumping my books on the kitchen table. “Is Jill home?” “Been here and gone,” she replied from the living room. “I think she went somewhere with Gabe.” Gabe was Jill’s boyfriend in Charlottesville. She actually had what she referred to as her “real boyfriend” back in her hometown of Seattle. Jill figured being at opposite sides of the country justified having Gabe while she was on the east coast. The problem was it appeared as if Jill actually loved them both. That was her triangle to figure out, I guess. “I know what you’re thinking,”

Darcy yelled from the living room. “You’re thinking she is going to get burnt by burning the candle at both ends.” “No, smarty,” I hollered back, going to the fridge for bottled water, “I have decided I don’t judge what people do anymore.” “Really?” she asked, poking her head into the kitchen. “Why the change in philosophy, may I ask?” “I don’t know,” I said with a shrug. “I guess the only reason I voiced an opinion on the matter was because someone is bound to get hurt eventually.” “And now you don’t believe that?” “Oh I absolutely believe that,” I replied. “But I guess one could argue

that who goes through life without getting hurt at one time or another? I mean, she’s having the time of her life, right? Maybe at the end of the day, it will have all been worth it. Maybe I should be so lucky.” “Oh shit, Lindsey, there you go. There are so many fucking guys that want to take you out. Your problem is that you are too picky.” “I just seem to pick the wrong ones,” I said. “Hey, not to change the subject but I’m going to Falls Church tomorrow for the holiday weekend. What are your plans?” Darcy came from a fairly affluent

family in Georgetown. She was the only girl and the baby of the family. Her parents fell all over themselves to make sure she wanted for nothing. She was my best friend since coming to Virginia. I knew we would always be friends even after college. “Actually, I’m going home too. I’m skipping my classes tomorrow and leaving when I get up.” I rolled my eyes at her, shaking my head with a smile. “Don’t judge me,” she replied grinning. “I’m passing everything.” “Barely,” I said, laughing. “So, I guess we won’t be driving up together.” “No but hey, let’s get together Friday night and go clubbing. Sound good?”

“Yeah, I’m up for that. I just need to make sure I still have my fake I.D.” Darcy had turned twenty-one in September. She had put me into contact with one of her male friends who had made an extremely authentic looking fake student I.D. for me. “Okay, then,” she said heading back out to the living room to watch the rest of Springer, “I will call you Friday to make plans.” I got through my classes the following day then headed to Falls Church. I had packed the night before and loaded my car so that I could leave directly from school. Jill was going to

spend Thanksgiving with Gabe in Atlanta; Darcy had left this morning, texting me that she was on the road and would call me Friday. I made good time and pulled into the driveway before 5:00 p.m. Slate was right there, as always, being the perfect step-father, hauling my suitcase into the house and upstairs to my room. Mom was in the kitchen feeding Bryce some sort of baby food from a jar. Most of it appeared to be smeared on his cheeks. He immediately brightened into a big smile when I came into the room. “Hi sweetie,” Mom greeted, getting up to give me a hug and kiss. “You look great.”

“You too, Mom. I can’t believe how long your hair is getting.” She smiled sheepishly, fingering through her below the shoulder length locks. “Eric forbade me to cut it,” she replied. “He wants it as long as it was when I wore that wig. Do you believe it?” “Yes,” I said. “That’s Slate.” “Why do you still call him Slate?” “Why don’t you call him "Slate" is the better question?” She shrugged, wiping Bryce’s face clean. “I don’t know, I guess because the name "Slate" was what I knew him as

when I was someone else. I’m not that person, anymore.” “Maybe so, Mom, but Slate is still that person.” She looked thoughtful for a moment. I was curious as to why it seemed to be a big deal with her. Was she ashamed of being ‘Diamond’ for that period of time? Maybe I should ask Taz since he was studying to be a shrink. Taz, there he was once again in my mind for the hundredth, strike that, for the millionth time since our brief, nonsexual interlude a few weeks back. I had to confess, the thought of seeing him again gave me butterflies. Bryce was fussing now. Having finished eating, his chubby little hands

were gripping his sippy cup while it sounded as if he was smack dab in the middle of squeezing one out. “Uh oh,” Mom said, her thoughts temporarily interrupted. “I’ve got this, Mom,” I said, unlocking the tray from his high chair so that I could lift him out. “Come on big boy,” I cooed to him, planting a wet kiss on his chubby little cheek. “Big sissy is going to change that nasty diaper.” He gave me a gummy grin sporting a couple of new teeth. His bedroom was downstairs, next to the master suite. I passed Slate on my way in coming out of the master suite. He was wearing

a pair of jeans and a tight black tee shirt that accentuated his muscular physique. Instantly, a memory of Taz dressed in jeans and a black tee that Sunday morning a few weeks back came to my mind. “Hey, Lindsey, do you want me to change him?” “It’s okay, Slate. I need some bonding time with my baby brother.” He chuckled, his dimple making a rare appearance. “I’m not too sure what you have signed up for with my little man here could be classified as ‘bonding.’ You’re a good sister, Lindsey.” He gave me a wink and headed down the hall towards the kitchen where

I heard him bellow playfully to Mom: “Come here woman, feed your man.” I had to smile. I never would have thought those two would make a couple. Now I couldn’t imagine Mom with anyone else. They were perfect for each other. He was her lobster, she was his. I gave a wistful sigh as I placed Bryce on his changing table and prepared myself for some toxic bonding. Much later, I lay awake in my bed upstairs thinking about seeing Taz the following day. I had heard Slate on the phone with him earlier in the evening, reminding him what time dinner was planned for the following day. I flushed crimson when I heard him

tell Taz to make sure he utilized proper manners because his sweet, impressionable step-daughter was home from college. Really, Slate? I smiled into the pillow that I was hugging close to me now, wishing my arms were wrapped around Taz. I guess this is what a 'crush' felt like. I had just dozed off into a peaceful slumber when sounds from below awakened me. They were knocking sounds that got progressively louder, then faster. It took me a few moments to figure out that my room was just above the master suite downstairs. Oh God! I so do not want to hear

this! In the eighteen years that I had lived under my parents’ roof, I had not once heard or even suspected that they were having sex. A few more moments passed and any doubts as to what was happening below me disappeared. “Oh God, Slate, that’s it, baby; keep fucking me just like that.” My mother’s voice had reached a high-pitch that was unfamiliar to me. I felt like an unwilling voyeur but what choice did I have? Maybe if I put the pillow over my ears . . . It was too late. Just then I heard a succession of

moans and whines from my mother, followed by Slate’s masculine groaning. Their sounds seemed to blend together in a very synchronized, rhythmic, carnal song. It seemed to go on forever. I was both fascinated and envious, which was disturbing. That was my mother for Chrissake! I didn’t want to think of her as a sexual being even though I knew how immature that sounded. She probably felt the same way about me. No need to worry, Mom. I now know what an orgasm sounds like; I have no clue as to what it feels like though. If she knew that, she would probably find me pathetic. I smiled when I recalled how she

had called him “Slate” again just now in bed. Perhaps “Diamond” was back.

CHAPTER 5 Mom and I had been up with the chickens to start the preparations for our Thanksgiving turkey feast. Slate had taken charge of Bryce which was a big help. Dinner wasn’t scheduled until 7:00 p.m. this evening, so we had time. It was kind of a fun and bonding thing for both Mom and me. She worked on rolling out the pie dough for her pumpkin pies while I shredded stale bread for the dressing. Mom was in such a good mood these days. I noticed how she would hum happily while she worked in the kitchen.

I thought about what I had overheard the night before and figured that might account for some of the humming. “Mom,” I started as I tossed some of the seasoning into the big bowl where I was mixing the dressing, “does Taz see anyone?” She immediately looked up from where she was stirring the pumpkin filling mixture, suspicion written all over her face as to why I would even be asking. “Why do you ask?” “Oh, no reason, really. I just thought it was odd that he didn’t bring a date to your wedding or at least to the reception.”

“Hmmph,” she replied, giving an eye roll, “It’s hard to imagine Taz knowing anyone that would have the couth or manners to be able to pull it off at a gathering like that.” “What do you mean?” “Well, you know when Slate and he were working undercover in Indy all those months?” I nodded, chewing on a piece of celery that I had sliced for the dressing. “Taz was totally into that scene, I me a n totally. From the do-rag to the slutty groupies that were constantly around, he totally loved that persona.” “Well, come on, Mom, how does that prove that he doesn’t date, you

know, nice girls?” “He may,” she said with a shrug, “I’ve never seen him with one. Slate’s never mentioned him being seriously involved with a woman. Who knows?” “You know what is strange, Mom?” She looked up at me again, waiting for me to divulge some unknown juicy tidbit or piece of gossip about Taz she hadn’t yet been made aware. “What?” “I just noticed something. You’re calling Eric ‘Slate’ again. What’s up with that?” I enjoyed watching the blush cross over her face as she started back in on pouring the pumpkin filling into the pie shells.

“Really, Lindsey; you come up with the strangest observations at times.” By late afternoon, all of the preparations were finished. The turkey was stuffed and roasting in the oven; the pies were cooling. The cranberry salad was in the fridge; along with the mashed potatoes, broccoli casserole and glazed carrots that just needed to be nuked before we sat down to eat. The dinner rolls were baked and would be reheated as well before dinner. The dining room table was set. Bryce was down for a nap with Slate. Mom and I had cleaned up the kitchen after all of our preparations. “Well, Lindsey, I don’t know about

you but I am going to take a nice, long soak in the Jacuzzi tub and get dressed. What about you?” “I might grab a short nap and then a shower, Mom. I didn’t sleep very well last night.” “Oh?” I tried as hard as I could not to let the amusement show on my face. I failed. “Yeah, some weird banging noises woke me up.” I saw her face flush as she realized just how much I had heard. “Enjoy your soak, Mom. See you in a couple.” I set the alarm on the clock in my room and napped restfully for an hour. It was enough to refresh and give me my

second wind. I showered and blew my light brown hair dry, using some gel to make the short cut spiky and playful. I had put some coppery and dark blond highlights in my hair over the summer. I liked the depth it had given my hairstyle. I carefully applied eye make-up. Darcy said my eyes were my best feature. They were green like my mom’s; not nearly as green as Taz’s though. I selected a pair of black leggings with an oversized sweater and pulled a pair of black heeled boots on. I put earrings into the four piercings I had on each ear. I spritzed a tiny bit of cologne on and took a final look. This was as

good as it got. I descended downstairs, hearing Bryce chattering his baby-talk to Slate who was lounging on the sofa his legs perched up on the coffee table in the family room. I scooped the baby up just as Slate’s cell phone chimed. “Speak, loser,” he said with a laugh. My ears perked up. Was he talking to Taz? I couldn’t imagine Slate talking to anyone other than his best bud that way. I continued to play with Bryce, keeping my ears peeled trying to confirm it was Taz. “Sure, bro. No problemo. The more the merrier.” It had to be Taz, but what was with

the more the merrier’? My eavesdropping was interrupted when Mom came into the room, putting her earrings in. She looked great as usual. As soon as Bryce saw her, he immediately raised his arms for her to pick him up. I couldn’t get over how much he looked like Slate. He sure didn’t look like Mom or me. “What does my baby boy want?” she cooed, picking him up. I saw Slate roll his eyes as he tossed his phone back onto the coffee table. “Sammie,” he said, his tone slightly admonishing but mostly playful, “what have I told you about talking ‘wussy’ to

my boy like that?” “Oh, for crying out loud, Slate,” she said, kissing Bryce’s chubby little fingers, “he’s still a baby. He loves his mommy; yes he does, yes he does,” she continued to cooing to him. He was totally infatuated with Mom. It warmed my heart. “Oh, that was Taz on the phone,” Slate said. “He wondered at this late time would it be okay if he brought a date. I told him no problem.” “A date?” Mom asked her brows furrowed in confusion. A freaking date? “I didn’t know he was dating anyone,” she replied, taking Bryce into the kitchen with her. “I mean, it’s no

problem. Lindsey, can you set another place?” “Sure, Mom,” I replied, my stomach feeling queasy now at the prospect of meeting Taz’s girlfriend. What an idiot I had been with my school-girl crush going on like that for weeks. I had been so out of touch with reality, thinking how almost intimate it would have been having just the four of us adults sharing Thanksgiving dinner. I was pathetic. I realized that now as I slapped another place setting down at the dining room table, the china rattling noisily. “Is everything alright out there, Lindsey?” Mom called from the kitchen.

“Fine, Mom,” I replied, gritting my teeth. Thirty minutes later, I had managed to pull my emotions together, putting on my best, congenial attitude for the evening. I had no one to blame except myself for thinking Taz and I could ever be anything to each other. I was in the nursery, putting Bryce down for the night when I heard the doorbell ring. I heard Slate holler that he had it as I walked from the nursery to the kitchen. Mom was just putting the food in that needed warming up when I got there. “Would you like a glass of wine, Lindsey?” she asked. I was grateful as

hell for the offer. “Sounds good, Mom.” She poured each of us a glass of white wine. Several moments later, we heard the sound of footsteps coming closer from the hallway towards the family room that was right off of the kitchen. I saw Taz’s girlfriend first. She was following Slate into the family room. She was tall, slender and had jet black hair that went to her waist. She was a bit exotic looking, but certainly not ugly in any way, shape or form. Then I saw him following behind her. His eyes immediately met mine, briefly. He looked away as if he felt guilty about something. How strange.

My mother immediately headed over to greet our guests with her well borne manners and cordiality. “Honey,” Slate said, “this is Roxie Stratton, Taz’s friend who is joining us for dinner this evening. Roxie, this is my wife, Sammie.” I felt like a statue as the rest of the introductions were made. Roxie seemed nice enough. We shook hands and then Mom ushered everyone out to the family room with the instructions they were to make themselves comfortable. She told me to join them while Slate got their drink orders and she pulled some of the cold appetizers out of the refrigerator that we had prepared

earlier. God! Do I have to, Mom? Somehow, I survived the small talk during our drinks and appetizers. I managed to hold my own during dinner, sneaking into the kitchen a couple of times under the pretense of refilling the gravy boat where I chugged another glass of wine down quickly. By the time dinner was over, and dessert was being served, I had a nice little buzz going unbeknownst to anyone. Well, Taz might have known , because it seemed as if he was continually glancing over at me. I caught him watching me in my peripheral vision a couple of times. He wasn’t all that attentive to his girlfriend either. She

didn’t seem to be upset by this. She was probably used to it. I excused myself to go upstairs. I needed to find my phone and call Darcy. The thought of sitting around for after dinner conversation like a pathetic fifth wheel did not appeal to me in the least. It was only 8:30 p.m. They could be here for another couple of hours. No freaking way. I was relieved when Darcy answered. She was as bored as I was at her house. She said she would swing by and pick me up. According to her, there were several clubs with live bands playing tonight. It was a major party night. It sounded good to me.

I brushed my teeth, touched up my makeup, putting on heavier eye shadow and liner for night lights. I added lipstick. Now what to wear? I shed my leggings, putting on a short black skirt instead, with lacy black thigh-highs. I put my heeled black boots back on, and found my black, leather jacket in the closet. I was ready for some fun. I was still upstairs primping when I heard a knock on my bedroom door. “Lindsey?” It was Mom. “Come on in,” I called out to her, putting my small make-up bag in my

purse. “Honey, Darcy is here for you. Are you going out tonight?” “Oh yeah, Mom. You know, you guys have company and all. Darcy and I are just going to a dance club or two.” “Lindsey,” she said, getting her “mom” tone on, “you aren’t old enough to be in those clubs.” “Oh, come on, Mom. I didn’t say I was drinking. It’s a social thing.” I could tell that she still was not comfortable with it. She needed to let it go. I was in college and entitled to my own social life. I certainly wasn’t going to wait until I was thirty-five years old to get one. I brushed past her and headed down

the stairs to where Darcy was waiting for me by the front door. She was dressed in a short leather skirt with a matching jacket. Damn! Apparently, the company had moved into the living room. Right away I noticed Taz scoping me out. His eyes perused my body from top to bottom, and then back up again. “It was nice meeting you, Roxie,” I called out to her as I buttoned up my jacket. “Taz, always a pleasure,” I lied, giving him a brief glance. “Nice meetin’ you too, hon,” Roxie said giving me a smile. Taz simply nodded.

Slate was looking past me to where Mo m was standing, giving her one of those, “where the hell is she going?” looks. What the hell ever. “See you in the morning, Mom. I’ll be late.” I didn’t wait for a response. I gave Darcy “the look” which she knew to mean, “Let’s roll.” Once we got out to Darcy’s sporty little BMW, she was all giggles. “Who the hell are those two hotties in there?” “The dark-haired one is my stepdad, the other one is an ass named Taz.”

CHAPTER 6 Darcy and I hit the first club called Dazzle. It was packed with mostly college kids like us. My fake I.D. worked like magic. It hadn’t failed me yet. We managed to find a two-seater table not too far from the dance floor, and squeezed through the bodies to grab it. Darcy ordered a Bloody Parrot; I ordered a Thorny Mexican. We both liked our tequila different ways. “Cheers,” she said, tapping her glass to mine. “Here’s to holidays with the folks,” I

smiled as I sipped my drink. “So,” she said, “how long have you wanted to fuck Taz?” I choked, nearly spewing Darcy with my Thorny Mexican. I hadn’t said a word to her whatsoever about Taz. “And don’t bother pretending that you don’t.” “I haven't a clue as to how you reached that deduction, Darcy. I mean God, he’s practically as old as Slate.” “Which would be how old?” “Slate is thirty-three. Taz will turn twenty-nine in December.” “My my, you seem to know enough about a guy you claim you don’t want to fuck.”

I rolled my eyes at her. It was damn tough keeping things from Darcy even though I really hadn’t been trying. There was simply not anything of consequence to tell her. At least I hadn’t thought there was until now. It had really pissed me off that Taz had felt the need to flaunt his girlfriend in front of me, in particular when he had just told me several weeks back that there was no one. Darcy was watching me now, waiting for me to spill. What the hell? Maybe it would be beneficial to have her perspective on it. At least I knew that she wouldn’t make fun of me.

She knew I was a virgin; she didn’t pass judgment. She listened quietly as I shared everything that had happened the weekend my mom got married, or I should say, everything that didn’t happen as far as Taz was concerned. “So, he shows up at your house this evening with the chick that has that Morticia Adams hairdo going on, huh?” I had to smile. Darcy was being supportive in her own way. “Come on, Darcy, she was pretty in an exotic kind of way. I have nothing against her. I just don’t believe that he has anything other than a sexual relationship with her.”

“What makes you think that?” “It’s just a feeling,” I said with a shrug. “I think he was window dressing tonight on my behalf. He probably is shooting me down because of that kiss I gave him, because he liked it.” “Maybe so,” she replied, taking a sip of her drink through the straw. “All I know is that if I still had my hymen intact, he would be the man I would freaking give it to.” “Hmm,” I said, sucking my drink down thoughtfully. Two cocktails later a couple of college guys approached us to dance. Darcy and I always had a blast on the dance floor. We had a routine we

occasionally did if we weren’t worried about impressing the guys we were dancing with. I waited for her signal. The guy I was dancing with was totally consumed with his own good looks. I knew the type. It was a turnoff. I could tell Darcy wasn’t impressed with her partner either. We were dancing to the classic 80’s tune, “Le Freak” which could drag out forever especially when dancing with a guy who didn’t do it for you. I saw the signal. Darcy and I immediately left the guys and danced towards each other to the beat of Chic’s tune. We danced provocatively against one another, allowing our hands to touch

and glide along each other’s body. Our eyes locked and we gazed at each other seductively during the song, as we writhed to the quick beat of the music. Out of my peripheral vision, I could see both dudes looking at one another in total confusion. They finally got the hint and walked off the dance floor as the song was winding down. We returned to our table, laughing hysterically as we took our seats again having successfully scared off the guys. “Works every time,” she laughed, sipping her drink. A few moments later, our waiter set two fresh drinks down at our table, indicating they had been sent over by a

couple at a table across the dance floor from us. Darcy and I both looked over to see a couple of lesbians blowing kisses over to us. “Holy shit,” she said, smiling and waving back. “I hate when that happens.” We both broke out into another fit of giggles when I felt my phone vibrate from the pocket of my tight skirt. I pulled it out not recognizing the number coming up on the caller I.D. It was local. I answered, pressing one finger to the ear not up to the phone so I could hear whoever it was on the other end. “Hello,” I halfway screamed. “Where are you?” a semi-familiar

voice asked. Holy shit - Taz? “Taz?” Immediately, I saw Darcy’s head snap up to full attention. I motioned to her that I was going to go down the hallway to the restrooms so that I could hear. “Yes,” he replied, “now answer my question. Where are you?” I immediately panicked. Had something happened to Mom, Slate, or the baby? “What’s wrong? Did something happen?” I was in the hallway now, outside the door of the ladies restroom where it was quiet enough to hear what

he was saying. “Nothing happened. I’m home now. I just wondered why the hell you left in a snit the way you did this evening.” Huh? “Wait a minute, hold on. You mean to tell me that you are calling to find out why I didn’t feel like sticking around the house and being a fifth wheel? Why do you even care?” “I just found it a bit rude,” he replied, totally serious. Oh really? I was tripping. I had drunk enough alcohol to be fairly buzzed. It finally dawned on me to ask him how he got my cell phone number. “It wasn’t difficult, sweetheart. I got

it off of Slate’s phone. Are you drunk?” “Maybe,” I said with a giggle. Why do you care? “Is the little sex-bomb you left with drunk as well?” “Perhaps,” I replied, testily. “Why do you care?” “Where are you?” he repeated. “At Dazzle, okay?” “I’m coming to get you.” “No, you’re not,” I answered abruptly. “Yes, I am. I will phone you when I’m out front. I will be in my black Corvette. If you don’t come outside within thirty seconds, I will have no problem whatsoever coming inside and

physically dragging your ass out of there. Do you understand?” “No, Taz. I don’t understand. Why do you care what I’m doing? What business is it of yours anyway?” “I’ve decided to make it my business. You’re underage and you shouldn’t be out getting drunk. It’s not safe.” “What’s in it for you?” “Hopefully, not another puke-fest like the one I witnessed a few weeks back. I’m on my way.” He ended the call having the last word. How freaking ballsy was that I thought. I used the restroom while I was close by, and then returned to our table.

Darcy was just coming to sit back down from the dance floor. “What was that about?” she asked, her eyes sparkling devilishly. “Taz is on his way to pick me up,” I said, still stunned by the conversation. “Shut up!” she screamed. “Are you serious?” I nodded. “You are going to lose that cherry tonight, girl.” “With any luck,” I said, feeling giddy now, and a bit frightened at the same time. I drank the rest of my drink. It wouldn’t hurt to have a bit of liquid courage.

“Hey, what about you,” I asked, “are you okay to drive?” “Sure,” she said, nonplussed. “I’m only three miles from home. I’m not drinking anymore anyway. I’ll leave after I make sure you get off safely,” she snickered. Twenty minutes later my phone chimed. Taz was out front. Darcy had chugged a full glass of water down and seemed to be fine. She walked me out and I immediately spotted the shiny, black Corvette pulled up at the curb. “Take care,” she said, smiling as she headed to the back lot. I opened the passenger side door and

saw him. He leaned down across the seat, looking up at me. “Is she alright to drive?” he asked. “Yeah, she’s fine,” I answered climbing in, trying to do so without showing him everything, not that he hadn’t seen it all before. The short, tight skirt was not conducive to getting in and out of a low riding sports car. “What would you have done if she hadn’t been?” I asked, looking around the two-seater car. “Made two trips,” he answered flatly, pulling away from the curb. “So,” I started my stomach in knots from my nerves, “what’s on the agenda, Taz?” “We’re going to my place,” he

replied very matter-of-factly. “We’re going to fuck.”

CHAPTER 7 My hands were folded in my lap. I could tell that my palms were sweaty. It had been all of thirty seconds ago that Taz had declared that we were headed to his place to fuck. I was in a daze, partially due to the alcohol consumption, mostly because I had no clue as to where the hell he was coming from right now. “Wait,” I sputtered, finally. “What?” “What part didn’t you understand?” he asked, glancing over at me as he headed up the entrance ramp to the interstate. God, he was so flipping hot. I needed to put that aside for the moment. I

was totally confused. “I’m sick of having you under my skin,” he stated simply. “So, I intend to have you underneath me, on top of me, sitting on my face, but by God I am not having you under my fucking skin anymore. Period.” “Just like that,” I said. “I have nothing to say about it, right?” “That kiss you planted on me a few weeks back said it all, sweetheart. You want it, too. Tell me I’m wrong.” The truth was he wasn’t wrong, not entirely anyway. I found him sexy as hell. I liked everything about him. I was positive that he would be a superb lover, though I had

no objective evidence to support that theory. What was the problem then? The same freaking hang-ups as always, Lindsey-style. I had carefully crafted this scenario from the time I had first felt those little gut twinges around boys. From the time of my first crush to the present, I had this whole scenario laid out in my mind. It wasn’t as if I was not being realistic. Of course, I knew that I would have more than one lover in my life. Statistics like that couldn’t be denied. Over the course of my teenage years, and now past twenty, many of the prerequisites I had previously mandated had fallen by the wayside with the

exception of one: any man that I fucked had to care something about me. I would not be labeled as a one-night stand. I wouldn’t make an exception to that even if it was Taz. “Well?” he asked, taking his eyes off the road momentarily to gaze over at me. “Is this going to be like a one-night stand?” I asked, sounding meeker than I had intended. “That will be up to you,” he replied, giving me a sexy smile. “Is that what you want?” I didn’t answer him. I didn’t know what the hell I wanted any longer. Nothing had gone as I expected from the time I suffered my first broken heart with

Lance, to finding out Adam was gay. What the hell? “What about your girlfriend? What about Roxie?” “Roxie is not my girlfriend,” he stated. “She is someone that I fuck.” “Why did you bring her to dinner then?” I could tell he was not comfortable with the question. “I thought it would help.” “Help with what?” “Help with getting you out from under my skin.” “Did it?” “What do you think?” I felt a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. It was something at least.

“I want to fuck you, Taz,” I said softly, peering up at him from beneath my lashes. “I want to fuck you very much.” Once we reached Taz’s apartment, he told me to make myself comfortable. I relaxed on the sofa of his large living room. He had some music playing on his Bose system; soft rock. I liked that. He came back with a couple of glasses of white wine. I smiled inwardly thinking how he was attempting to stage a semi-intimate scene though I knew it was what it was: simple fucking, no strings attached. He handed me a glass of wine, and

then took his place next to me on the couch. He was in another pair of tattered jeans, no shoes or socks. He had a white tee shirt on but he still looked like he had just stepped off of the cover of a sexy man’s magazine. I had peeled my boots off just inside the door, pulling a leg up underneath me as I accepted the glass of wine and sipped it slowly. My palms were still sweaty. He was turned towards me, one arm resting against the back of the couch. I felt his fingers gently playing in my hair. I shivered unintentionally. “Are you cold, baby?” he asked gently.

“I’m fine,” I said, looking into those smoldering green eyes of his. He leaned in closer, taking the wine glass from my hand, setting them both on the coffee table. He turned his attention back to me, pulling me to him as he lowered his head. I felt his hand on the back of my neck, caressing my skin gently, nudging me closer to him. His lips captured mine, slowly and sensually, working them gently, plying them with his. My lips parted, allowing his tongue inside where he expertly teased mine with perfect rhythm. I answered his passion with my own, lacing my arms around his strong neck, molding myself

to him. We continued our long, passionate kiss; soft moans escaped me as the pleasure ramped up. His hands were on my sweater now, gently lifting it up and over my head. I felt his strong, warm hands and fingers expertly unclasp my bra so that it fell open in front. I shrugged it off, my lips then returning to his. “God, you’re beautiful,” he sighed, his hands now gently exploring my breasts, his fingertips teasing my nipples to erection. He cupped a breast with one hand, lowering his mouth to it. I strained against him as he let his tongue make sweet and pleasurable love to it, circling

the nipple over and over again, then finally taking it all and sucking gently on it. I was writhing against him; feeling very warm and wet at my apex. “So sweet, too,” he whispered, moving his magic lips to the other breast and making sure he pleasured me there as well. I was clinging to him by this time; my legs were straddling him, my skirt having been pushed up to my waist. He lifted me up in one, easy swoop and carried me to his bedroom. He gently placed me on his massive kingsized bed after pulling the covers back. He pulled his tee shirt up and over his

head. I marveled at his bulging muscles and beautiful physique. His tattoo was sexy as hell as my hands braced his arms as he came closer. He leaned down in front of me, gently rolling my thigh high stocking down my leg, and removing them one by one. He raised me up, so that I could shimmy out of my skirt. All that was left was my silk thong. He quickly hooked his thumb into the waistband and tugged it downward, raising me up to step out of it. Once again, I was totally naked in front of Taz. This time I was sober enough to see how his eyes lingered on my body, taking in every inch of it.

I saw the huge bulge in his jeans. I wanted to see what his cock looked like. It seemed bigger than Lance’s or Adam’s. Just because I was a virgin didn’t mean I was clueless about a man’s junk. Lance and I had dry-humped naked. Adam and I had dry humped clothed. Adam had let me play with his junk. I even attempted to suck him off, but he had stopped me, telling me that I wasn’t doing it right. Now I wondered if I really hadn’t known what I was doing, or if it had been a “gay” thing. I didn’t have time to ponder it any further.

Taz lifted me up and placed me on my back, spreading my legs apart gently with his hands. He was straddling me, still in his jeans, one muscular thigh on either side of me. “I want to taste your pussy, Lindsey. I want to see how sweet it is,” he said huskily. His lips were on my belly; he softly trailed downward, his tongue tracing my belly button, his fingers tenderly plying my sex. He could feel the wetness. “I like that,” he breathed against my skin. “You’re pussy is nice and wet for me already. Let me see if I can get you wetter.” I felt his mouth move downward,

slowly and leisurely, taking his time building my pleasure up along the way. His fingers gently pulled the lips apart. His warm, wet tongue slid along the split, finding my clitoris and washing over it with his tongue. “Mmm,” I moaned, unable to help myself. No man’s tongue had ever been there. God, this felt so good. My hips moved with the pulsating pleasure he was delivering. His tongue now sank deeper inside my core, swirling around sucking the juices from me as he groaned. “Ahh yeah,” he said, “I knew it would be sweet.” His lips kissed my sex very gently;

beneath each fold, he kissed and suckled alternately. My core was on fire. I whimpered against him, my body arching up to meet his mouth in anticipation and lust. His fingers played in rhythm with his tongue, plunging in and out of me. “Fuck, you are tight, baby,” he commented, as I continued to grind against him in pure ecstasy. “Uh huh,” I replied, feeling the release in me building up to a crescendo. I had given myself clitoral orgasms before, but this was building up into something much different. It was stronger, deeper; my instincts told me it would bring a release of a much larger magnitude. I was craving the

release now as Taz continued to work me orally into a near-frenzy. “That’s it, baby,” he cooed. “You’re getting ready to come now. Relax, Lindsey, let it happen, baby. That’s my girl.” I was there. I felt myself reach the climatic peak and now the release was unfolding, making every nerve and muscle in my body shiver in pleasure. My fingers clutched each side of the pillow my head was on. It enveloped me from head to toe, my body involuntarily releasing pure sexual tension. I cried out as my hips were thrusting harder and faster against Taz’s mouth. I felt a surge of wetness released, followed by his groan as he felt my

orgasm on his lips and tongue. “Mmm, you’re a squirter, baby. I love that.” I wasn’t exactly sure what he meant, but he was pleased, so it was all good. My climax continued for several moments more, and then I slumped back, totally exhausted and fulfilled at the same time. How strange was that? My skin was ultra-sensitive now, post-orgasm. I shivered as I felt his stubble against my upper thighs. His tongue was still busy, licking every remnant of my orgasm. My breathing started to normalize once again. I felt like I had a big, goofy smile on my face. I was certain I was

only smiling inwardly. “What’s that smile about, Lindsey?” Oops - guess not. I blushed, knowing that I did indeed, have a big, goofy smile on my face. “Just thinking how good that felt,” I replied softly (and happily). “I’m curious to find out how much better the real thing will feel.” He was laying beside me now, his head propped up on his hand, his finger gently tracing the sensitive skin on my belly. “What real thing?” he asked, quirking an eyebrow at me. “You know,” I said trying not to sound too sheepish. I didn’t want to sound like a sixth-grader so I belted it

out. “A man’s cock inside of my pussy.” The look on his face was one of horror instantly. He immediately sat up and struck a defensive pose. “What the fuck are you talking about?” “What do you think?” I asked, now feeling defensive myself. This was supposed to be a good thing for a guy, I thought. Didn’t every guy want to bag a virgin at some point in his life? “You’re a virgin?” I needed to make light of it. He sounded like he was freaking out a bit over it. “Everyone is at one time or another,

right?” “Are you totally fucking serious?” “Isn’t that a good thing? I thought guys dreamed of doing a virgin. There is a major shortage, in case you hadn't heard.” He didn’t appreciate my making light of it one damned bit. He threw his legs over the side of the bed, leaning over and rubbing his forehead with his hand. “Why in the hell didn’t you tell me this before we ended up here?” he shouted, clearly pissed now and not trying to hide it. “Why in the hell are you making me feel bad about it?” I yelled back, pulling myself up into a sitting position on his bed. “You act as if I just told you I was a

leper instead of a virgin.” He raked his hands through his thick head of hair, shaking his head in disbelief. “I will tell you this: a leper would have a much better chance of me burying my cock inside of her than a virgin,” he spat. “Get dressed. I’m taking you home, Lindsey.”

CHAPTER 8 It had been three weeks since cruising the “Ride of Shame” back home after the botched fuck-session with Taz. He had been furious with me for not divulging up front that I had never had my “V-card swiped” as he so eloquently phrased it. I had been just as furious with him for his boorish treatment of me once I had shared the information with him. He said he had a strict policy where virgins were concerned: he didn’t do them. Slate had still been up when I got home. He had seen Taz’s car back out of the driveway as I had hurried up the

driveway wanting to put as much distance between me and the asshole as possible. “Is Mom asleep?” I asked once inside the house. “Yep,” he said, quirking his brow at me. “Can I ask why you left with Darcy and Taz ended up bringing you home?” “Oh, well Darcy and I were at Dazzle and she is over twenty-one, so of course, she can legally drink. She drank a bit too much. I didn’t think she should drive under those circumstances. I remembered that Taz had given me his cell phone number when you and Mom went on your honeymoon, you know, just in case I needed anything while you

were gone? So, I called him to give us a ride and he was happy to do it.” That wasn’t so tough now was it? “Lindsey,” Slate said, studying my face, “you do realize what it is I do for a living, right?” “Excuse me?” “If you think for one second I believe a word of what just came out of your mouth, then you must take me for an idiot. I’m insulted, darlin’. I would have much preferred you simply telling me that it was none of my business.” “Slate?” “Yep.” “It’s none of your business.” “Fair enough, Lindsey.” I had retreated up to my room and

cried into my pillows for most of the night. I had slept late the following day avoiding Mom as much as possible. Friday night was pretty much of a repeat. I decided to head back to Charlottesville a day earlier than planned. I told Mom I needed to study for upcoming finals. The truth was I was sick of crying. Being around Slate reminded me of Taz. Slate could tell I had been crying. I don’t know how he knew, but he knew. He gave me a hug before I left, telling me to drive carefully and that they would see me in a few weeks. I had wondered if Slate was going to say anything to my mother about it. I was

fairly certain that he hadn’t. My mother was not the type to hear something like that and not pummel me with questions about it. Slate was cool. I had shared it with both Jill and Darcy after I returned to school. Jill was horrified; Darcy thought it was a hoot. “You know, Linds, you may want to consider paying a doctor to remove that thing. I am beginning to think hymens are over-rated these days. You don’t seem to be able to lose yours on a bet.” “Ha ha, Darcy,” I said, giving her a hateful look. “Do you know how humiliated I was?” “I can only imagine,” Jill said, putting her arm around me and giving me a squeeze. “Lay off of her, Darcy. That

was entirely insensitive for Taz or Spaz- whatever the fuck his name is to behave like that to Lindsey.” “Hey,” Darcy replied, “she really should have said something to him. Not every dude is comfortable with the task of deflowering a virgin. It is a big responsibility, you know?” “How do you figure?” “A woman never forgets her first time. If it is not good, or extremely painful and proper precautions are not put into place beforehand, it can be traumatic for both parties. I’m sorry; I agree with Taz on this. She should have ‘fessed up.” “Whatever, Darce,” Jill replied,

heading out the door to meet Gabe, “I’ll bring you back some Haagen-Dazs, Lindsey.” I could always depend on Jill for compassion and empathy; Darcy, not so much. "Thanks for understanding, Jill," I replied, shooting Darcy a look. “Just put it behind you, Linds,” Darcy said. “You think I don’t hear you crying around in your room at night? He’s not fucking worth it. It is his loss, not yours.” “I doubt whether he sees it that way,” I replied, grabbing my new backpack. “I’m going to the library, Darcy. See you later.” It was dusk. I had finals this week

then home for winter break. I dreaded going home. As long as I was safely ensconced in my apartment in Charlottesville, I didn’t have to relive that awful night with Taz. I tried to think of a valid reason for not going home. There was none. My mom would be upset and suspicious if I begged off making the two hour drive to Falls Church, and then Slate would feel obligated to mention that he saw Taz dropping me off. She would naturally assume the worst. I took the elevator downstairs and walked across the bridge way over to the parking garage for the building. I went to the space where I always parked

my VW. I didn’t notice it right away. I unlocked the driver’s side door, and slid into the seat tossing my back pack to the passenger side floor before I noticed all of the window glass on the passenger seat. The passenger door window of my car had been smashed. I looked around the rest of the car. The glove compartment had been jimmied open. My registration was missing. Everything else seemed to be in place. Why would someone take my vehicle registration? It dawned on me that my vehicle registration contained my full address and cell phone number. Shivers went down my spine. I only paused

momentarily before my instincts kicked in. I grabbed my purse and backpack and launched myself out of the car. I flew back through the door leading to the bridge-way, looking around as I did to see if anyone sinister was lurking about. Once I got to the elevator, I pounded on the button to get it to the door to open. Once inside, I envisioned someone wearing black leather gloves sticking their hand in just as the elevator door was about to close. It didn’t happen. I breathed a sigh of relief. I watched a lot of suspense television. Darcy looked up when I used my key to go back inside the apartment.

“That was quick. Forget something?” I shook my head, fumbling in my bag for my cell phone. I quickly hit Mom’s number. Slate answered. “Is Mom there?” “She’s with the baby, Lindsey. Are you alright?” God, he was instinctual. “Someone broke the passenger window out of my car in the parking garage. The only thing they took was my vehicle registration with my address and phone number on it.” “Are you there now?” “I’m back in the apartment.” “Good girl,” he said, breathing a sigh of relief. “You stay put, okay? I’m

going to contact the local authorities there and fill them in. They will send a crime lab unit out to dust for prints and thoroughly inspect the car. Don’t go back out there, Lindsey. Don’t leave your apartment until you hear back from me, got it?” I shook my head ‘yes.’ “Lindsey?” “Oh, yeah, Slate. I’ve got it.”

CHAPTER 9 (Taz) I was sitting in the passenger seat of Slate’s truck, heading for Charlottesville. I hadn’t seen much of him since Thanksgiving. I had been working on a different case that was nearly wrapped up. He had been conducting training sessions at Quantico. Something seemed different between us. I wasn’t sure what it was. Maybe it was simply my own guilty conscience for treating Lindsey the way I had. What a dick I had been. She hadn’t deserved that shit. Hell, I made her feel

like a freak because she wasn’t a slut. How fucked up was that? God, I couldn’t stop thinking about her. It was driving me nuts. It was as if her face, her body, her voice, her hair, her scent, the taste of her were all imprinted on my brain like some primal connection that I couldn’t shed. I had been on a jack-off bender for three weeks. Even having Roxie over for a nightly fuckfest hadn’t offered any relief from my thoughts and mental pictures of Lindsey. Over the past week, I simply told Roxie it was over. The fucking just wasn’t any good any more. She had taken it in stride, taking her coyote howl

with her as she moved on to someone else. I thought about Roxie. Maybe Slate was pissed because I hadn’t told him on the phone that day that Roxie was my date for Thanksgiving dinner. After all, they had fucked once or twice. I hadn’t stopped to think about him not being comfortable with that since he was married now. Roxie had been okay with it. She knew better than to say anything about that to him or in front of Sammie. We’d only been on the road for twenty minutes. It was going to be a long trip if we continued it in silence. I knew he was worried about Lindsey; afraid that Jack Dennison had slipped back into the country, and was

hunting her down thinking she might be able to offer him something. Everyone else pretty much wanted him dead. I couldn’t stand it anymore. I needed to break the silence. “Slate, man, are you pissed off at me for some reason?” He glanced over at me. His face was expressionless. “Why would you ask me that, Taz?” “You’ve been pretty quiet.” “Have a lot on my mind at the moment.” “Before that. Since Thanksgiving. I guess I owe you an apology.” “Oh yeah? I’m listening.” “I guess I should have told you ahead

of time that Roxie was who I was bringing with me to dinner. I’m sorry, man.” “You’re apologizing for bringing Roxie to the house? That’s it?” “Well, yeah. What else is there?” “Why don’t you fucking apologize to me for whatever it was you did to my stepdaughter, ass-wipe?” “What the hell are you talking about?” “Don’t give me that shit, Taz. I was up the night you dropped her off. I was the one that lay in my bed downstairs and heard her crying right above me in her room for the next two nights. Then she fucking goes back to school a day early? What the fuck did you do to her?”

Now Slate was just plain pissing me off. He was butting into shit that was clearly none of his damn business. “Why didn’t you ask her, man?” “I did!” he yelled. “Well?” He was obviously flustered. “She told me it was none of my business,” he snapped. “So then maybe you need to back off, Slate.” I could see his knuckles turn white as he gripped the steering wheel of the truck. Slate didn’t like it when someone shut him out. But the truth of the matter was it wasn’t any of his business. A few minutes later, Slate spoke up

again. He wanted to go over the strategic plan we had put together for the authorities in Charlottesville. We reviewed the file together; put contact information together for them. Lindsey’s car had been towed to a forensic lab in Richmond for a detailed analysis. The report was due tomorrow. The local authorities had contacted the apartment building security manager. There were cameras scattered throughout the hallways and parking garage. Slate and I requested them to pull the tapes. “So,” I said, once we had finished the review, “do you think it is the rat bastard?” “My gut says it is. He needs

something. She would be the only person he might feel would help him get it.” “What do you think?” I asked. “What do you mean?” “Do you think Lindsey has it in her to turn away her father if he asks for her help?” “I’m not sure,” he answered honestly. I wasn’t sure either. That would be a tough position for a young woman. She had likely been the apple of Daddy’s eye; in the dark for all of those years thinking she was part of a normal family and then suddenly finding out her father is a fucking sociopath had to be really tough.

Jack Dennison was a textbook sociopath. We probably hadn’t even scratched the surface on that one. “Do you think Dennison will try to hurt Sammie?” “Not while I’m alive,” Slate replied. Slate was so fucking in love with his wife. I guess that was how it was supposed to be. My family was a different story. My mother and father had been together for thirty-five years. They were very social people, just not with each other. I never observed any bad behavior out of either of them growing up in Northern California, but then we weren’t exactly the Cleavers, either.

“Taz,” Slate said, turning to look me in the eye, “don’t do anything to hurt Lindsey anymore, okay?” “Slate,” I said in a tone that had some anger creeping into it, “it is not what you think.” “I don’t know what it is, Taz. You’re right. It is none of my business. I don’t even want to know the details. All I know is that Lindsey is a sweetheart, and she is my wife’s daughter. If she gets hurt, Sammie gets hurt. I won’t let that happen.” “You have nothing to worry about, Slate. I don’t have any intention of hurting Lindsey. I promise.” “Okay then, brother.”

CHAPTER 10 Fall semester was officially over with the completion of the finals I took today. I was free until the second week of January. I felt pretty good about how I had done on my exams. Even with the crap that had happened three days ago, I was able to concentrate on my studies. Jill had left this morning for Seattle to spend some time with her family and her real boyfriend. I had to smile when I thought back to her tears and sniffling last night when she told Gabe she would see him in January. I hadn’t cried like that since - well since Taz had dissed

me for being a virgin. I was so over that. I walked out of Sumner Hall. It was chilly in mid- December in Virginia. I looked around and quickly spotted Kyzer. He was waiting for me just outside the door as promised. He had been taking me to and from school since my car had been towed to some forensic impound facility for examination. I liked that he wasn’t nosy about it. He knew something had happened and he wanted to help. Kyzer Stanfield was pure Ivy League in looks and manners. He was also a jock which was a nice blend of characteristics in my book. He was about six feet tall, slender but muscular,

had blond hair and brown eyes. I had always thought that to be an attractive combination. “There you are,” he said with a smile. “How’d it go?” “I feel pretty good about it; how about you?” “I finished my last exam about thirty minutes ago. It’s hard to know. A lot of times when I think I’ve clinched it I’m unpleasantly surprised; conversely, there are times I feel I’ve totally bombed and I’m pleasantly surprised. I do know that I did all I could to prepare so I take satisfaction in that.” He put his hand on the small of my back as he walked me to his Mercedes and opened the door for me.

“Are you hungry?” he asked as he slid into the driver’s seat. “How about a celebratory dinner now that finals are finished?” “I’d love to, Kyzer, but I’m expecting my stepfather at some point this afternoon or evening. He is driving me home to Falls Church for the holidays. I’m just not sure what time because he has to meet with some law enforcement locally. Hey, how about when you drop me off, coming in and I’ll treat us to a delivered pizza?” “Sounds great,” he said with a smile. He had dimples that were adorable. He had a baby face going on big time. It was so cute, I could eat him up.

We headed to my apartment. I phoned in our pizza order. They said they would deliver in about thirty minutes. I saw that Darcy had left a note on the refrigerator for me. Lindsey, Left for home early. I’ll be in touch over the holidays. Be careful. Love ya! Darce “Would you like a beer or a glass of wine?” I asked Kyzer. “A beer would be great,” he said, shrugging off his jacket and taking a seat on the sofa. “Coming right up.” Between Darcy, Jill and Gabe (who

was here a great deal of the time) there was always beer and wine on hand. I grabbed a beer from the fridge, and poured it into a beer glass for him. I poured a glass of wine for myself. I sat down next to him and we toasted the end of fall semester. “What are your plans for the holidays?” I asked him. “I leave tomorrow to fly home to Naples. I’m just going to chill with the fam, catch up on my reading, do a bit of partying, I’m sure." “I bet Florida is nice about now,” I commented. “Yes. I am definitely going to do some beach time. Why don’t you think about coming down for a few days,

Lindsey?” “Oh, Kyzer, I appreciate the invitation and trust me; there is no place I would rather not be for the next few weeks than D.C., but my mother would have a fit.” “I understand,” he said, taking a swig of his beer. “You have my cell phone number. If you should change your mind, please call. My father has a private jet. It would be no problem to send our pilot to pick you up. I really mean it, Lindsey.” The truth was I knew that he did. Kyzer was simply one of the nicest people that I had met of the male gender in a very, very long time.

“I promise, Kyzer,” I said, taking his hand into mine. “You’ve become such a good friend to me. I really appreciate your chauffeuring me around like you have.” “Nonsense,” he said, waving his hand at me to let me know that it was no problem. “I don’t like that fact that someone has violated your feeling of security. I hope things work out, Lindsey.” I wasn’t sure exactly what he meant by that, but I didn’t have much time to ponder it when the doorbell rang. Our pizza was here. Kyzer and I devoured the pizza, talking about our families, our classes

and our roommates. He was so congenial and funny. I was so comfortable around Kyzer. I had sipped another glass of wine, Kyzer had downed another beer. Before I knew it, it was nearly 6:00 p.m. I hadn’t heard a thing from Slate, but then I saw that my cell phone battery had died. Oops! I hurriedly put it on the charger in the kitchen just as someone pressed the doorbell to the apartment multiple times, and immediately began pounding on the door. Holy crap! “I’m coming,” I hollered, as I opened the door to a very pissed-off

Slate. “Slate,” I started. “What the fuck is with your phone?” he snapped, barging into the apartment totally bent out of shape. “I’m sorry,” I replied, moving to close the door, “I just saw that the battery had died.” I saw someone else cross over the threshold just as I was ready to shut the door. It was Taz. Bloody hell! I backed out of his way as he came into the room, immediately eyeing Kyzer, as if he was some sort of a perpetrator. I felt my cheeks flush. I was embarrassed that Slate had come barging

into my apartment like a worried father. That was not his place. I had nothing left to do but to introduce Kyzer to my step-father and Taz. Why in the hell had Slate brought Taz anyway? They both nodded to Kyzer, neither one of them particularly friendly. It didn’t take long for Kyzer to get the hint. “Well,” he said, grabbing his jacket and putting it on, “I will be taking off now. Remember what I said Lindsey, if you want to spend some time in Naples the invitation is open.” I nodded mutely. “Mr. Slater, nice meeting you,” he said, shaking Slate’s hand again. “You too, Mr. Matthews.”

“Uh huh,” Taz grunted, unimpressed with Kyzer’s manners. “Have a great holiday, Kyzer. Thanks again for chauffeuring me around this week.” I walked him to the door, opening it for him. I could still feel Slate and Taz’s eyes on us. Oh God, Oh God, Oh God! “It was my pleasure, Lindsey,” he said giving me a dazzling smile He leaned down and gave me a soft, sweet kiss on the lips. “Have a wonderful holiday with your family. I’ll keep in touch in case you change your mind about coming to Naples for a few days."

“Thank you, Kyzer,” I murmured, feeling my cheeks flush. I heard Taz clear his throat behind us. Kyzer gave me a quick hug and then he was gone. I was mesmerized by his sweetness. He had in his own way become my protector over the past several days. He had looked after me, making sure that I was delivered and picked up from my classes. He had not delved into the specifics of my situation, respecting my need for privacy over the incident. After I shut the door, I turned around to face my audience. Taz’s face was set in stone; Slate, on the other hand, had a

shit-eating grin going on.

CHAPTER 11 The ride back to Falls Church with Slate and Taz was fairly quiet. I sat in the back seat of Slate’s double cab and leafed through the current issue of Cosmo. My cell phone went off several times. Each time it was Kyzer, asking me where I was and telling me over and over again how great it would be if I could come to Naples over the holidays. I could tell Taz’s ears were burning, trying to overhear what was being said. I took extreme delight in it. I even purposely exaggerated my tone with Kyzer, being all flirtatious and giddy.

At one point, I heard Taz mumble something Slate to the effect of “dudes being pussy-whipped.” I wanted to laugh out loud but I didn’t dare. When I got home, Mom literally flew out of the house to greet me. She acted as if she hadn’t seen me in months versus just a few weeks. I knew what that was about. She suspected Daddy was behind the break-in of my car; she was worried. Slate asked me for my cell phone. “I need to take the battery out of this, Lindsey. It can be GPS tracked. You need to use one of our phones while you’re here, okay?” I nodded. I hated being without my phone.

I got settled in and played with Bryce most of the afternoon. Mom and I made plans to go Christmas shopping the following day. I had done nothing in the way of shopping. Mom, Bryce and I shopped the following day from dawn to dusk. I finished all of my Christmas shopping. We even did a Santa Claus stop for Bryce, perching him on Santa’s lap for a picture. Darcy called me in the evening. She picked me up and we went out clubbing for a while. I shared with her what had happened that evening when Slate came to pick me up at the apartment with Taz in tow.

“You’ve got to be shitting,” she cried. “That is absolutely so fucking perfect.” “Here’s the great thing,” I said, “Mom and Slate are having a Christmas Eve get-together. Taz is invited. I’m waiting to see who he brings this time.” We both dissolved into laughter at that one. Christmas Eve turned out to be a sunny but extremely chilly day. I spent the morning helping Mom wrap all of the Christmas presents. “Boy, Bryce is making out like a bandit I see,” I commented, wrapping yet another one of his presents. “Sounds like someone has a bit of

the green-eyed monster going on,” Mom commented, grinning. “Hardly, Mom. I know that Christmas is for the little ones.” “This is almost like his first Christmas,” she replied. “The first one that he kind of has a clue that something is going on. It takes me back to when you were that age. You used to call Santa Claus ‘Canta Coz’,” she said, sounding wistful. “Babies grow up so fast.” “We used to have some pretty great Christmases, Mom. The last two have been kind of strange, I guess.” I noticed she was biting her lower lip. That meant she was worrying about something. I suspected I knew what it was.

“Mom, you don’t think Daddy is going to show up around here, do you?” She gave a heavy sigh. “I don’t know what to think, Lindsey. I had almost gotten to the point where I could relax with my life now, not be worried that he was out for revenge of some sort. With what happened to your car, my sense of security has evaporated.” “Why would Daddy want revenge?” “It was me that took those financial records to the authorities. It officially tied him into the money laundering, insurance fraud and racketeering. He has likely figured that out.” “What would he gain though by

seeking revenge on you?” “What would he lose, Lindsey? He stands to spend thirty to forty years in prison. How much worse could it get?” “I don’t see Daddy as wanting to exact revenge on you. I just don’t.” She smiled, reaching over and brushing my hair back. “My bigger worry is that he wants to make contact with you. I know your father would never hurt you, Lindsey, but I do believe he would try to use you and your soft heart to his advantage. That would be a horrible position to put you in.” “Don’t worry, Mom. It would not be difficult for me to do the right thing. Do you really think I could be tempted to

help Daddy continue to be a fugitive from justice?” “I just think it would be a difficult position for you. I know that you still love your father.” “Yes, I do. I love Daddy; I don’t like him, though. I would never allow him to drag me into his criminal activities. I have too much self-respect for that.” “That makes me feel better, Lindsey. Still, I hope like hell he doesn’t get near you. Let’s change the subject to something more upbeat. I’m wondering when you’re going to tell me about your new boyfriend.” I cocked an eyebrow at her. “Boyfriend?”

“Don’t play coy with me. Slate told me all about – Kyzer, is it?” “Oh, that,” I said, smiling sheepishly, “I don’t really consider him to be a boyfriend, yet. He’s been a really good friend to me. He chauffeured me around after my car was impounded.” “Hmm,” she replied, tying a fancy bow around one of the presents she was wrapping, “Slate made it sound like a little more than that. He said the boy gave you a lip-lock before he left.” I couldn’t help but laugh. That would be how Slate would put it. “Yeah, I’m not sure lip-lock is the proper term. It was just a sweet kiss. It kind of took me by surprise since that

was a first.” “Really? Maybe he was staking his claim.” “Staking his claim? Mom, I introduced Slate as my stepfather to him for crying out loud.” “I’m not talking about Slate. Wasn’t Taz there at the time?” she teased. I felt a flush spread across my face. What did my mother know? I looked over at her quickly. She was clearly teasing me; she hadn’t a clue about Taz and me or she would not be so jovial. “Really, Mom.” I said frowning. “I’m just playing with you,” she laughed. “I know that Taz is not the type of guy you would be attracted to, but

hey, Kyzer doesn’t know that, right?” “I guess,” I replied, not comfortable even talking about Taz with my mother. “So, tell me about Kyzer.” I filled her in on what I knew about him, his looks and let her in on the fact that his family had a private jet at my disposal should I want to spend some time at their home in Naples, Florida. “You’re not going to go, are you?” she asked, her brow furrowing. “No, Mom. Don’t worry. I’m not going to go, but would you be open to me inviting him here for New Year’s Eve maybe?” I was surprised I had even asked that question since the thought of it hadn’t

occurred to me until just this minute. Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. She so wanted me to have a boyfriend. I knew that she would approve of Kyzer. He was the “anti-Taz” in her book. “Honey that would be fine. We have a spare bedroom upstairs. I mean you didn’t plan to cohabitate here, right? I mean, I think Slate would have a real problem with that and -” “Mom, chill. My God, I just told you that what Slate saw at my apartment was the first time we even kissed. So what you think I’m going to hop into bed with him the next time I see him?” Now it was her turn to blush. It amused me how funny she was about certain things, like trying to make

it sound as if Slate would have an issue with my sleeping with a boyfriend under their roof. “Of course not, sweetie. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t presume things about you like that. Things are different these days though.” She was clearly tripping over her words trying to assure me that she wasn’t trying to nose into my business. “Mom, do you remember that talk we had when I was home from Cornell my freshman year about my status with guys and lack of experience?” She nodded. “Well, it hasn’t changed.” “You mean you’re still a virgin?”

she asked, smiling. “Don’t sound so pleased about it Mom; I’m certainly not.” She leaned over to give me a hug. Neither one of us had noticed that Slate had slipped upstairs to my bedroom where we were wrapping the gifts. My mom started to respond to what I had just told her when Slate cleared his throat behind us. Oh freaking great. Now he knows my status as well. “Sorry to interrupt,” he said as if he hadn’t heard a thing, “Lindsey, I just got off the phone with the forensic lab that went over your car. Just as I suspected, the car had been wiped clean of prints. They did find a strand of light blond hair

on the passenger side floor. Do any of your friends have long, blonde hair?” “No,” I replied. “It sounds like Susanne’s hair.” He nodded. “It will undergo DNA testing. They also discovered that a sophisticated GPS tracking device had been attached to the underside of the car. It was likely done when your car was parked at school. It would not have been difficult for your father to find out where your transcripts from Cornell at had been transferred. I’m sure the GPS was used to find out where you lived.” “So, you think that someone followed me into the parking garage?”

“Not necessarily inside, but to the location. Because that apartment complex is fairly large, they needed to find out which apartment was yours. That’s why they took your registration from the car. The building’s security officer confirmed that the camera covering the section where your car was parked was disabled.” This was starting to feel really creepy. “Lindsey, you need to get another cell phone with a new number.” I nodded. “Perhaps Santa will bring you one tomorrow,” my mom said smiling. “It might even be ‘plug’n’play.”

“Thanks, Mom. But this whole thing is freaking me out.” “No need to freak out,” Slate replied. “We will get to the bottom of it.” Slate leaned over to give Mom a kiss. “Slate, would you check to see if Bryce is still napping?” “Absolutely, baby,” he said leaving the room. Mom and I finished wrapping the gifts. I helped her make meatballs for the Christmas open house they were hosting tonight. I had invited Darcy to come by. She told me she wouldn’t miss it for the

world. I knew she planned on being entertained by my discomfort around Taz. She was in for a major disappointment. I decided I would no longer allow him to get under my skin. It was as simple as that.

CHAPTER 12 It was just after 7:00 p.m. I could hear the sounds of the guests starting to arrive for the open house. Mom knocked on my door letting me know that Darcy was downstairs. “I’ll be right down,” I called out, finishing with my eye make-up. I was wearing a plain, black cocktail dress that had long sleeves and a vneckline. It revealed an appropriate amount of cleavage. I had put on patterned black, nylon thigh highs and a pair of four-inch black heels. I accented with red earrings, necklace and bracelet to make it more

festive. I descended the staircase spotting Darcy immediately. She was talking to Taz, naturally. Knowing Darcy, she probably had her flirt on with him. She was already into Slate’s eggnog, which was fairly potent by the amount of rum I saw him pouring into it. She looked up as I came into the room and called out to me. “Merry Christmas, Lindsey! Wow, you rock that dress. Don’t you agree, Taz?” Sometimes I simply want to kill Darcy. Taz was watching me; a slight smile

appeared. “Yeah,” he replied. “She looks great.” “Merry Christmas, Darcy. . . Taz.” “Hey, Taz,” Darcy said, “would you be a sweetie and get Lindsey some of this kick-ass eggnog?” I actually thought I saw Taz hesitate momentarily, as if he was going to make an issue of my being underage. He nodded and disappeared into the throng of people in the living room. “Okay,” I said to Darcy, “who in here is his date?” “That’s just it,” she replied hastily, “he came alone.” “Really?” She nodded. “I mean as far as I can

tell. Who in the hell are all these people?” she asked. “Hell if I know,” I laughed, “probably FBI people.” “Really?” she asked, eyes widening. “That’s kind of hot. Oh, here he comes. I think I’m going to mingle for a bit with some of these G-men,” she said with a wink. She promptly disappeared, making it look as if I wanted to be alone with Taz, which I clearly did not. Taz gave a little smirk as he handed me a cup of the eggnog. I thanked him and took a sip. There was an uncomfortable silence between us. I took another sip.

Something was wrong. “Where did you get this?” I asked him, somewhat puzzled. “From the refrigerator,” he replied with a shrug. “Not from the punch bowl in the dining room?” “Nope. From the carton in the fridge.” “Well, then there’s no alcohol in it.” “That’s right. It’s virgin ‘nog.” “Oh, that’s really funny, Taz.” “I didn’t mean it like that,” he said, clearly agitated. “You’re an ass.” Despite my resolve to put the whole ugly incident with Taz out of my mind, to rise above his assholey behavior then

and now, I quickly became aware that it was easier said than done. I passed Darcy on my way into the dining room. “Who pissed on your cornflakes?” she asked. “Does it show?” “Hell yes, Lindsey. What the hell happened in the last three minutes?” “You know that cup of eggnog you asked Taz get for me?” She nodded. I told her what he had brought to me and what he had called it. “Oh, that is fucking wrong on so many levels,” she hissed. “Come on. Let’s get you a glass of wine.”

“No wine. I need something stronger.” She followed me into the kitchen where I put some ice in a glass and found the decanter of tequila. I poured a healthy couple of shots into the glass. “You aren’t going to drink that straight, are you?” “Of course not,” I replied, tossing a cut lemon wedge into it. “There.” I chugged it down quickly, then took the lemon wedge out and sucked whatever tequila it had soaked up out of it. “Slow down, Lindsey. I’ve seen tequila make you crazy.” “I’m hoping it makes me homicidal

tonight,” I retorted, pouring another shot over the ice. “Seriously, Linds.” “Okay, okay.” I went to the fridge and got a pitcher of orange juice out, pouring a small amount into the glass. “Happy? Now it’s a Tequila Sunrise instead of just straight tequila.” “Come on then,” she said. “I met a couple of young cadets from Quantico. Your mom introduced me to them. I guess they were in some class on surveillance that Slate was teaching the past month. They are hot.” Darcy had me by the hand leading into the family room towards the back of the house.

“Right there,” she nodded towards the fireplace where a couple of guys were standing, dressed casually in Dockers and sweaters. “Am I right?” She didn’t give me a chance to answer, dragging me over to where they were conversing. “Darin, Patrick, this is Lindsey. Slate is her stepdad,” Darcy said, practically pushing me into them. How many eggnogs had she had? “Hi, Lindsey, I’m Darin Murphy,” the dark-haired one with amber eyes said, holding his hand out to shake mine. “Pleased to meet you, Darin,” I replied, shaking his strong, firm hand.

He was definitely hot in a dark and dreamy sort of way. “And that makes me Patrick Dunn,” the other one said. Patrick was tall, slender and had a mass of dark blond tousled hair, along with big light blue, almost gray eyes. He bore a resemblance to the character Dr. Spencer Reid from the television show, “Criminal Minds.” I wondered if he watched the show. “Merry Christmas, Patrick,” I said smiling at him. “Has anyone ever told you-?” “I know what you’re going to say,” he chuckled. “And yes, they do. I don’t see it, though.” “Are you training to go into the BAU

segment of the FBI?” “Absolutely,” he said. “I have to finish my Master’s though and then on to my Doctorate. It will be awhile.” “Well, I’m sure there will be plenty of nut cases left to go around,” I said, laughing loudly. I felt Darcy elbow me. What? “I’m sure you’re right,” Patrick replied, giving me a strange look. “What about you? Do you attend college with Darcy here?” “Yes, I do. I’m working on my B.S. in Economics.” “I see,” he replied, nodding. He thinks I’m in a boring program

of study. I can tell. “Darin says that he is going to be an undercover agent,” Darcy said, giving him one of her sexy little smiles. Oh God, she wants him. I knew that look. Darin seemed to like her back. Great. “Is that right?” “Yes. It’s been my dream for a while. Your step-father is kind of my role model you could say. He is great.” “How old are you Patrick?” I asked, not bothering to care how that sounded. “I’m twenty-two,” he replied. “Perfect,” I said. “Would you mind getting me another tequila sunrise from the wet bar downstairs?” “Sure,” no problem he replied,

taking my now empty glass. Darcy was busy talking quietly to Darin; laughing at his jokes, and putting her hands on his arms and shoulders. Yep, they were definitely doing the mating dance. The alcohol seemed to be going straight to my head. I remembered then I hadn’t eaten much all day, just nibbling here and there while helping Mom. Speaking of which, I hadn’t seen either Mom or Slate since coming downstairs a half an hour before. That thought had no sooner left my mind when I saw Slate come into the room, looking around. He saw me and motioned for me to come over.

I wondered if he knew I was working on getting drunk. I did my best to walk the straight line over to where he was standing. “Got a minute, Lindsey? Your mother and I would like to see you in our room for a few minutes.” Holy shit - what is this about? “Sure,” I replied. “Darcy, would you tell Patrick that I will be right back?” “Sure thing,” she said, still totally mesmerized by Darin. I followed Slate down the hallway and around the corner to the master suite. Mom was sitting on the bed looking totally upset about something. She was dabbing her eyes with a tissue. She had

been crying and it appeared she had been crying hard. Slate closed the door behind us. “What’s wrong, Mom?” “My father - your granddaddy suffered a massive heart attack late this afternoon, Lindsey. He passed away about an hour ago. They were at the airport getting ready to fly into Dulles to surprise us for Christmas. Mom said it happened just like that. One minute they were preparing to board the plane, the next minute Daddy was gone.” She began to weep loudly. I ran over to her, putting my arms around her. “I can’t believe it,” I sobbed. “I can’t believe Granddaddy is gone; that we’ll never see him again.”

Within moments, we were both sobbing and trying to console each other. I knew Slate was out of his element with emotional things like this. I didn’t know a lot about Slate's background, but I knew that his father had not been a man that had earned his respect. My mother had shared that much with me. “What about Grandma?” I finally thought to ask. “Who is with her?” Mom dabbed her eyes again, trying to stop the flow of tears. “Oh, Mrs. Marshall their neighbor at the condo in Fort Myers came and picked her up at the airport and is staying with her. Daddy’s body has been

released to a mortuary in Indianapolis. Mom can’t get a flight at the moment because of the holiday.” “So, when?” She can’t get another flight until the day after Christmas,” she sobbed. “Mom is stuck in Fort Myers for the next two days with no family, virtually all by herself. This is so terrible.” Slate could take no more. He was on his feet in an instant hovering over Mom. “Shh, baby,” he soothed. “You don’t worry about that. I will leave this minute and drive all night to get her and bring her here, okay? Taz will go with me.” “Oh Eric,” she said, clutching him, “I want you here with Bryce for Christmas. Besides that, it is at least a

fourteen to sixteen hour drive down and back. By the time you got back, it would almost be the 26th anyway.” Her body was racked with sobs. I’m sure that Slate felt helpless, something that did not come easily for him. I suddenly had a thought. “Mom,” I said, “Fort Myers is close to Naples, right?” “Yes,” she said, still sobbing. “Maybe I can help. Slate, I need your phone to call someone.” He reached into his pocket and pulled his phone out. I dialed Kyzer’s cell phone number, praying that he would answer. It was Christmas Eve; he might be out at some holiday event or

party. It was a long shot, but it was all I had. My heart lurched when he answered. I knew he wouldn’t recognize Slate’s number so I identified myself. “Kyzer,” I said in a voice that was full of hope, “I really need your help. We’ve had a terrible loss in the family. Is your family’s plane and pilot available?” “Lindsey,” he said his voice now full of concern, “what happened? Tell me what you need?”

CHAPTER 13 Once again I found myself alone with Taz. This time it was in my mother’s Mercedes. He was driving. We initially r ode in silence to the private airport where my grandmother was due in on the private jet that Kyzer’s family had dispatched at my request. I was amazed at how responsive Kyzer was to my request for this major favor. “I am so very sorry for your loss, Lindsey,” he had consoled over the phone. “Please hang tight. I will call you back in a few minutes with the details, okay?” “Thanks, Kyzer,” I had replied,

holding back my tears. “I don’t know how I can ever thank you for this.” “There is no need. You are a very special friend and this is what friends do for each other.” True to his word, Kyzer had phoned back fifteen minutes later and provided the details of where the plane would be waiting. Their pilot had filed a flight plan they were clear to take off as soon as someone could get Grandma there. Slate had then phoned Mrs. Marshall who assured him she would get Grandma delivered safely to the small, private airport. Slate had not wanted to leave Mom. She wasn’t in good shape at emotionally.

He had asked Taz to drive me to the airfield to pick up my grandmother. I was extremely uncomfortable being with him on this particular mission. I was not about to break the silence. “So,” he finally said, “are you doing alright, Lindsey?” “I’m fine,” I lied. The truth was I couldn’t imagine never seeing Granddaddy again. I was worried that Grandma wouldn’t be able to go on without him. He was her everything. “Somehow, I don’t believe that,” he replied. “I mean that I am as well as can be expected. I just lost my grandfather, Taz; the only grandfather that I’ve ever

known. I am worried about my grandmother. She was so dependent on him for everything. I can’t fathom her being able to cope without him.” “I’m really sorry, baby,” he said softly. “No. Don’t say that,” I said not masking my irritability whatsoever. “I don’t need you trying to be nice or civil to me. I particularly do not want you to call me ‘baby’.” “Lindsey, please,” he started, “I want to explain about what happened a few weeks back.” What was there to say? He had made it perfectly clear to me that he ‘didn’t do virgins’. My God, he acted as if my

being a virgin had made me damaged goods. How screwed up was that? “Taz, as far as I am concerned, you said it all that night. There is nothing more that you could possibly say that would make your treatment of me any less deplorable. I can’t deal with anything other than getting my grandmother and helping her and my mom get through this, got it?” The rest of the trip was in silence. Taz had respected my need to focus on comforting my grandmother and my mother. Once we picked her up, I consoled her the whole way back. She seemed to have morphed into a solemn state of shock. Not weeping or wailing; eerily

quiet and reserved. Taz helped her out of the car and up to the house. My grandmother seemed to respond to a male presence. It somehow gave her a sense of security. I could see that. I got her suitcase out of the trunk and headed to the front door. Slate was at the door, taking it from me. I could hear Mom in the kitchen, sobbing together with Grandma. Everyone had departed. I looked at my watch it was after 1:00 a.m. in the morning. I suddenly realized it was Christmas. I glanced over at the Christmas tree that we had all decorated the day before. There was nothing underneath it. Bryce

would be up bright and early expecting Santa to have made a drop. Taz was getting ready to head out. He said something to Slate about seeing him in a few days. “Taz,” I said, getting his attention, “would you mind helping me carry the Christmas presents down and placing them under the tree for Bryce?” “Shit,” Slate said, “I totally forgot about that. I can handle that Lindsey.” “We’ve got it, Slate,” Taz spoke up, following me up the stairs to my room where they were stashed. It took several trips but Taz and I managed to get them all downstairs and arranged underneath the tree. It was just the two of us in the living

room now. Slate had joined my mother and grandmother in the kitchen. “Thanks, Taz,” I sighed as we finished and he stood to put his jacket on. I was wiped out. I was worn out; totally exhausted. He sensed it. Before I could object, he was there pulling me into his strong arms, his long fingers smoothing my hair. He just held me; rocked me back and forth. He comforted me and I didn’t resist it. I blinked tears back as I buried my face against his chest. I felt his lips brush against the top of my head, softly kissing my hair; whispering to me that everything would be alright.

I tilted my head up to face him. He lowered his face to mine. His lips captured mine in a soft, gentle kiss. And then he was gone. I didn’t know when I would see him again, and that hurt.

CHAPTER 14 I lay awake in my bed upstairs. I kept looking at the clock wondering when blessed sleep would finally come. The first time I glanced over at it the digits read 2:09 a.m. That’s when I could hear Mom and Slate making love in their room below mine. I suppose it was a comforting thing more than anything else. Mom needed to feel alive and Slate certainly made her feel that. Grandma had taken one of her ‘nerve’ pills and was sleeping soundly in the other bedroom upstairs. She was all cried out for the moment.

Mom was all cried out as well. She had been comforted by Slate. Grandma had been comforted by all of us. I was lacking in comfort at the moment. I glanced over at the clock again: 2:48 a.m. Fuck this. I got out of bed and quietly slipped into a pair of jeans and sweater. I hadn’t even bothered to wash my make-up off earlier. That was something I did religiously, but not tonight. I had simply collapsed into bed in my underwear once it was clear everyone was crashing. I ran my fingers through my hair and slipped on a pair of side-zippered boots.

I slipped quietly down the carpeted stairs, thankful that the set of Mom’s car keys Taz had tossed to me earlier were still in my purse. I grabbed my bag and headed out into the pre-dawn hours of Christmas morning. I started my mother’s car and backed out of the driveway. I knew exactly where I was going and what type of comforting I needed. As I pulled my mother’s Mercedes up in front of Taz’s place, the reality of what I was doing sunk in. Suddenly, all the resolve along with the sprinkle of courage I had mustered upon setting out on this twenty minute drive suddenly dissipated.

Holy crap. What if he totally rejected me once again? Could I handle double rejection from the same guy? Worse yet, what if he wasn’t alone? Oh God, I hadn’t even considered that before I set out on this pathetic quest for comfort. I reiterated in my mind that comfort was really all I wanted from Taz at the moment. Those strong, warm arms wrapped around me at the house before he left had been soothing, comforting and for some odd reason felt caring. I gathered my courage once again, and walked up the steps to his front porch. His apartment was dark with the

exception of a dim light from a lamp further back in the apartment. It was probably in his room. Was he up? I rang the bell and heard it chime from within. I sucked in the cold, December air as I waited to see what reaction my middle of the night visit would evoke. From somewhere inside, a light switch was hit illuminating his porch light. God, I felt like I was standing under a spot light looking fairly pathetic at this point. I heard the lock on his front door click; the door was pulled open. “Lindsey, what the hell?” He pushed open the storm door,

holding it ajar so that I could step inside into the warmth of his apartment. I noticed he was wearing a pair of grey sweat pants with a drawstring and a tight, black tee. His pj bottoms hung low on his hips, his tee shirt clinging to his muscular chest and firm belly. “Are you okay, Lindsey?” “No, Taz,” I whispered, coming to stand next to him in the entry hall, “I feel so sad right now and so alone. I’m sorry for waking you up in the middle of the night. I don’t want to be alone. Will you hold me?” I saw his face, his beautiful face soften as he understood. He shut the door behind me and took me once again in his

strong arms. “Of course I will, baby girl,” he murmured, pulling me tightly against him. “Come here.” He helped me off with my jacket, wrapping his arm around me as he walked me into the living room. He switched on a lamp next to the sofa and pulled me down next to him on the sofa. His eyes were searching mine. He was searching for a clue as to why I was here. It was difficult for me to understand why I was. How could I possibly explain it? “Can I get you something, a glass of wine maybe?” I knew it would at least nudge me in the right direction. Perhaps it could give

me a boost of courage that I knew I needed in order to tell him what I really wanted. I nodded. “Okay,” he said, patting my knee consolingly. “Sit tight.” He returned moments later with a glass of white wine, offering it to me. I took the glass and downed the contents, setting the empty glass down on the coffee table. I turned to look at him. I swallowed nervously my hands folded neatly in my lap. He was watching me expectantly. “Taz, with the loss of my father for all intents and purposes and now with the loss of my grandfather it occurred to

me that I have lost every single man that cared about me, that loved me. I have no one.” “That’s not true,” he interrupted. “You have your mother. You have Slate.” “It’s not the same. My mother is in need of comfort. Slate is there for her. I had no one to comfort me when Daddy did what he did. Slate cares about me because he cares about my mother. It’s not the same thing. I feel so much loss.” My voice cracked as tears started flowing again. He immediately enfolded me into his strong arms, running his fingers through my hair. I pushed back from him. I needed to finish what I started.

“Please listen to what I’m saying because it is extremely difficult to say this to you.” He nodded, waiting for me to continue. “My bedroom is directly upstairs from Mom and Slate’s. I hear them sometimes making love. Sometimes it is loud and sexual. Other times, like tonight it is soft and consoling. It is their connection sexually that accommodates what they need at the moment. It is really beautiful. It is their love for each other that sets the tone of their sexual play.” “Lindsey look, I have ---” “Please, Taz, hear me out. I get that they love each other. I realize that you

and me - well, we are barely friends in all honesty. I’m telling you this because right now I need to feel that sexual closeness with someone. I want it to be with you.” He moved away from me, raking his hands through his thick mass of hair. I could tell I had freaked him out. “Lindsey,” he said softly, “please let me explain myself to you, okay?” I nodded; my eyes locked with his. “A few weeks ago, when I - when we - well, when we started something that we didn’t finish, I had no clue that you were inexperienced. I would have felt like a total piece-of-shit if I had taken advantage of you.” “We both wanted it, Taz. You know

that.” “Maybe so, but I was totally under the impression that you likely had some high-school or college lovers in your past. I mean, please believe me, I didn’t intend for you and me to be a one-nightstand. I figured we could kick it for a while, no strings attached, and just enjoy it for what it was.” “So, what makes you think differently now?” “Experience,” he answered flatly. “Lindsey, I’m older than you. I’ve been around the block and I’ve learned things from my experience. One thing I’ve learned is that a woman’s first time often leads her to developing feelings of

attachment that may not be reciprocated. I’m not in to attachments and in particularly, I’m not about to do anything that would hurt you emotionally.” “Oh, I get it,” I replied. “So, you think the moment you ‘do me’ I’m going to fall in love and want to set the date or something?” “I’m just saying that you could develop an attachment that I would not reciprocate. It’s not who I am. I’m devoted to one thing and one thing only and that’s my career.” “Well, I guess you are kind of fucking full of yourself then, aren’t you? Is it unconceivable that perhaps the only thing I am interested in is getting the experience I currently lack? I mean,

come on, Taz, you are certainly not my idea of a ‘happily ever after’ prospect for a variety of reasons.” He cocked an eyebrow, studying me intently. I liked the fact that I had subtly put him in his place. It was time for me to go in for the kill. I had strategized this in my mind the whole way over. “Look,” I said, “it’s quite simple. I could use some physical comforting tonight. I want to make love for the very first time. The fact that I have no experience is something that you already know. The fact that you can provide me with the experience I need going forward, is something that I already know.”

He sucked his breath in, rubbing his hand across his face. “What the hell, Lindsey?” “It’s simple, Taz. Teach me how to fuck. There are no strings attached. With everything that has happened recently, I am finding myself drawn to Kyzer. He just may be the one that I could engage with in my first ever serious relationship. I’m not talking marriage at my age. I’m talking about being able to hold my own with a college man that I could quite frankly have a future with at some point. I don’t want to come across as some ‘bumbling’ virgin when the time comes.” He stood up, walking away from me

as if he was having difficulty in rationalizing what I had just shared. He spun around looking totally perplexed. “Kyzer? Really?” I nodded. “There’s just something about him, I guess.” Taz came back to where I was sitting on the sofa. His eyes were gazing into mine intently. He held his hand down to me. I placed mine into it and he pulled me up from the couch. We were no w standing face-to-face. He looked down into my eyes. His expression was serious. “I promised Slate I wouldn’t hurt you,” he said. “He suspected something happened between us, for some reason. I

didn’t tell him a thing.” “I’m not looking to get hurt, Taz. I’m just looking to get laid.” We were mere inches apart. I could feel the heat of his body close to mine. His hands fisted in my hair as he pulled my face up close to his. His lips lowered to mine and he kissed me with something close to fury. I held my ground, meeting his assault on my lips with every bit as much energy and greed of my own. My hands traveled down to the tight swell of his ass as I pulled him in against me, feeling his rock hardness. He bit my lower lip and his hands were now planted firmly on my ass,

roughly massaging it as he pulled me closer yet to him. My body molded against his. He quietly led me to his room, softly shoving me down onto his bed. “Get your clothes off. I’ll be right back.”

CHAPTER 15 As soon as Taz stepped out of the room, I scrambled to do as he instructed. I sat on his bed, tugging my boots off, my breath coming in shallow increments. Calm down, Lindsey I told myself silently. This is what you wanted. You are finally ridding yourself of this pesky piece of flesh that is more of an albatross than any token of purity. Finally butt-naked, I crawled underneath the covers, resting my head on a pillow and pulling the sheets up under my chin. Taz returned momentarily placing a couple of items he had brought with him

on the nightstand next to the bed. I didn’t miss the flicker of amusement that crossed his face as he saw me covered with sheets with the top blanket pulled up just underneath my chin. “Are you cold, Lindsey?” he asked with a slight smile. “No, I’m good,” I replied trying my best to muster casualness. I didn’t pull it off. He lit several candles around the room. “These are aromatherapy,” he explained. “They promote relaxation which is key to experiencing ultimate pleasure. It also provides more intimate lighting. Having sex in total darkness

does not lend itself to the visual aspect of the act; watching your partner’s body language, facial expressions making words not necessary to know what pleases one another." I shivered a bit underneath my cocoon of covers. Taz was approaching this in a very tutorial way. I liked that. It made it seem less desperate on my part. He switched his Bose system on; soft music drifted from the surround-sound speakers throughout the room. He had created some impressive ambience. “How much do you know about a man’s body, Lindsey? I’m not trying to delve into your business, but it would help me to know.”

I felt my skin flush underneath all of the covers I had heaped over myself; might as well be honest. “Not a lot. I mean I’ve lain naked with my boyfriends before. They’ve had their fingers on me - in me,” I stuttered. "I attempted to give Adam oral sex once. He said I did it wrong.” Oh God, now I was beet red from the top of my head to the tip of my toes. Taz was fine with it. “We won’t worry about that aspect of it this morning,” he stated plainly. “We are going to focus totally on your pleasure and breaking the seal, so to speak.” Nicely put.

He pulled his tee shirt up and over his head tossing it aside. I marveled at his lovely muscular frame, broad shoulders, ripped chest and abs. I loved the half sleeve tattoo on his right arm. It was a serpent wound around the branch of a tree. An owl was perched on the limb looking as if he felt no threat whatsoever as the serpent was poised to strike. My attention went back to Taz’s face as his eyes locked with mine. He lowered his sweats, allowing the long, thick expanse of his cock to spring free. It looked to be at half-mast already. I sucked my breath in not meaning to be quite so obvious.

Christ, I was not sure about this. It was long and thick; I could see that he hadn’t been circumcised. Both Lance and Adam had been, though I wasn’t sure how that made any difference when it came to overall length and girth. Neither of their packages came close to what Taz had hanging. He dropped his knee to the bed and pulled the covers off of me. I saw his eyes peruse the length of my naked body. He had seen it all before but not like this. Not in the soft glow of the candlelight, not knowing what he knew now. “Roll over onto your belly,” he

instructed softly. “Really?” My voice had a slight quiver to it. “Relax, Lindsey,” he laughed gently. “I need to get you relaxed, baby. Trust me?” I nodded as I rolled over onto my stomach. I felt Taz hover over me as he lifted a small bottle of something that he had brought into the room with him. I felt him pour a trail of warm, oily liquid onto my back. His hands immediately started to gently massage the warm oil into my skin. It seemed to get warmer as he rubbed gently in circular motions over my shoulders, between, them and then on down to my lower back.

I moaned softly as he continued ministering the warming oil to my hips, my butt and then on lower to the back of my thighs. “This is special blended massage oil,” he explained softly. “It does warm upon contact to the skin. It also contains pheromones that promote a feeling of calm and relaxation. How does it feel, Lindsey?” “Mmm,” I sighed, “it feels so good.” Taz continued the exotic massage covering every part of my body, including my feet which nearly caused me to climax then and there. I had no idea that feet were considered an erogenous zone until he clued me in as

he saw my reaction to his magical oil and hands. “Roll over now. Let’s do the front.” I did so without hesitation. I was eager to feel his hands with that lovely oil all over the front of me now. It was exquisite. He took his time, gently, soothingly rubbing all of the fear, anxiety and frustration out of me. God this felt like heaven. He straddled me and as his fingertips circled my nipples; I could feel his erection grow. The tip of his cock was now lightly brushing back and forth against my stomach and abdomen. His head lowered and his tongue now circled the rosy peaks of my breasts, flicking over them, his teeth

ever so gently nipping at the crests. His hands moved lower, gently caressing my hips and thighs. His fingertips massaged the soft folds of my pussy; plying them apart and working magic with his expert touch. He leaned back over towards the stand, wiping his hands free of the oil with a towel he had placed there. He picked up another bottle of clear liquid. “This is lubrication, Lindsey. This one is okay to be used on the genital areas. It also has a warming ingredient that will assist in preparing you for penetration.” I watched as he poured several drops into his hand and then proceeded

to massage the lubricating oil throughout the folds of my pussy, his fingers now gently entering me in soft in and out strokes. My eyes were glassy with pleasure. I wanted more. “Taz,” I softly moaned, “Please?” “Not quite there yet, baby girl. Be patient.” He continued the gyrations with his fingers, adding a third one. While it didn’t hurt, it wasn’t quite as pleasurable as with just two. My hips were rotating with pleasure, moving up and down as he fingered me expertly. “That’s my girl,” he cooed softly to me, his voice husky and sexy. “That’s my baby girl.”

His mouth found mine and we kissed. I circled my arms around his strong neck pulling his face closer as his right hand continued fucking me with his long, fingers. I could feel his fingers inside of me; two of them bending at the tips as if signaling a “come here” motion. Whatever spot they were tapping against inside of me felt damn good. I moaned louder now. Taz’s tongue was exploring my mouth; my tongue found his and they swirled playfully together. I loved the taste of him; the scent of him and the feel of him. God, if I wasn’t ready to be

fucked now I never would be. He leaned over not stopping what his fingers were doing below, and grabbed the condom packet with his other hand. Damn he could multi-task. He ripped it open with his teeth and raised his torso up a bit. “I want you to put this on my cock," he instructed. "Start at the tip and then just roll it on down to the base.” I nodded, watching as he thrust his hardened cock forward a bit. My fingers trembled with the pleasure that I was still feeling in my core as he continued to work his fingers in the most exquisite ways. I rolled the condom down as he instructed. His free hand checked the reservoir

at the tip to make sure it hadn’t been pulled down too tightly. He then grabbed one of the pillows and placed it under my butt to elevate it just a bit. His mouth lowered back to mine, kissing my lips and tugging at my lower one with his teeth. His tongue found mine again as we kissed. I could feel his fingers leaving me now to grasp the base of his shaft. I felt the head of it as his hand guided it towards me, circling the tip of it to lightly massage my clitoris. I was dripping wet for him. My hips were swiveling now; probably some primal mating instinct telling the male it is time to bring it on

home. “This is going to hurt, baby girl. There is no getting around that. You need to tell me if you want me to stop, okay?” His lips were against mine as he whispered those words to me. His warm breath sent shivers down my spine. “I will Taz,” I whispered. “I want you now.” I felt him push himself deeper inside of me; my legs spread apart instinctively to welcome him in. My hips continued to gyrate against him as he gave a quick thrust to bury himself a bit deeper. Crap this hurts! His mouth continued to devour mine, his teeth nipping at my lips, trying to take my mind off of "ground zero" I suppose.

I continued kissing him back and moving beneath him. My fingers were splayed across his back, my nails tracing circular patterns as my hips moved in unison with them. I promised myself I would not cry out. He gave one final thrust that caused him to moan as if in pain. It was nothing compared to the searing white pain that shot through me and the scream from me that followed. He stilled himself inside of me. “Are you okay, baby girl?” Tears were streaming down my cheeks but I nodded being the "trooper" I was. “The worst is over, right?” I asked

between clenched teeth. “I think so, baby. I need to move inside of you, though. Can you hang with it?” “I can,” I murmured unconvinced. I had asked for this; Taz was delivering. And then he moved and it was less painful. He did so again and again. He was now murmuring to me which I found quite arousing; whispering things to me, kissing my mouth passionately as he did so. “You are so fucking sweet, Lindsey,” he whispered against my lips. “God, you are so sweet and beautiful, baby girl.” His rhythm increased bit by bit. Each time he would ask if I was okay.

I was. I was more than okay. My legs were now wrapped tightly around his hips. My freshly-massaged feet and toes were digging into his muscular ass with a vengeance. This no longer hurt. This felt damn fine, as a matter of fact. I felt a different sensation now as Taz continued to rock in and out of me. His hands had pulled my hips up at an angle so that his cock was hitting that same ‘come hither’ spot that his fingers had tapped earlier. Now it was different. He was swiveling his hips so that the tip was circling it over and over again. He would then change course and rock into

me so it would hit full force in the center of that seemingly engorged bundle of nerve endings. Damn! I felt warmth spreading throughout my core that was building up into a vortex of pure pleasure begging for release. I heard Taz groan and I was right there with him. “Oh my God,” I said. “Oh God, don’t stop!” I couldn’t believe it was me shouting those things to him but I didn’t care. Taz rocked in and out of me; both of us moaning and saying things, dirty things to each other. Words that I had never used before spewed from my lips as the release of my climax unraveled

magically and fluidly from me. We came together and it rocked. I had never, ever felt anything so primal and yet so pleasurable in my entire life. I felt as if our bodies for that moment in time were fused together as one. I now knew what all of the fuss was about; why Mom screamed Slate’s name and used language I had never heard her use before. It all made perfect sense to me. As the waves of pleasure washed over us both, I could feel my toes curled up against Taz’s back. Our climax started winding down leaving me with a delightful tingling

sensation from head to toe. I placed my hands on either side of this man’s beautiful face and left kisses all over it. His fingers were tangled in my hair as his arm had somehow ended up curled above my head on the pillow. His tongue traced over my lips as he whispered softly to me. “You are my sweet angel, Lindsey.” We laid there for a few minutes catching our breath and collecting our thoughts. Then slowly, he pulled himself out of me, checking below for the damage. “Baby girl,” he said, “I think maybe you need to take a bath and let some warm water heal you up a little."

“Is it bad, Taz? I’m afraid to look down there.” “You’ll live,” he laughed, tossing the towel on his night stand so it landed between my sticky wet thighs. He propelled himself off of the bed totally comfortable with his naked swagger as he left his bedroom. I crooked my arm up under my head and released a contented sigh. It was done. I had finally crossed over the line from maidenhood to womanhood. Darcy would totally make fun of that expression (if I dared to verbalize it) which I never would. I knew it was corny, but hell, it was how I felt at the moment and I was damn proud of it.

When Taz returned to his bedroom he had put a pair of sweats on. He threw a bath towel over to me and said he had run a bath for me and to get my ass in there to soak. I scooted off the bed noticing for the first time the smattering of blood on his bed sheets. I quickly looked up at him and he had a half-smirk going. “Not to worry, Lindsey, I’m pretty sure I have something that takes virgin blood out.” My cheeks flushed red and I gave him a "look" as I wrapped the towel around me and padded off to the bathroom.

Taz had put bath oils in the water which I found kind of sweet yet puzzling. I wondered how often the women in Taz’s life stayed around long enough to need a bath. According to my mom, she wasn’t aware of Taz even having a short-term relationship since she had known Slate. I soaked in the soothing bubbles feeling extremely fulfilled and contented. I wondered if I looked any different. I was so relaxed I had nearly dozed off when I heard Taz tap on the door. “Lindsey, I have your clothes here. Can I bring them in?” I cocked an eyebrow at the door. Had he not just seen every part of my

body naked? Why the sudden concern for my modesty? “Sure,” I called out, lifting a sponge to start washing my body. He stepped in and I gave him a smile. He stopped mid-way in and gave me a look. “What?” I asked, watching his frown. “You better get that "just-fucked" smile off of your face before you walk through the door of your house,” he warned. He set my folded clothes on the seat of the toilet. I hadn’t even thought about home. Oh my God. “What time is it, Taz?”

“It’s a little after 7:00 a.m.” “Holy crap,” I said, scrambling to rinse the soap off by splashing tub water on me. I needed to get my ass in gear and head home now. I got up and grabbed the towel once again, scooting Taz out so that I could dry off and get dressed. Five minutes later, I emerged freshly-bathed and clothed. Taz was right there with a glass of water and some Advil tablets in his hands. “What’s that for?” I asked, puzzled. “It’s for you, silly. I thought you might be feeling some pain or tenderness down there.”

I thought about how sweet of a gesture that was for Taz. I felt fine; but hell, if it made him feel better to think he had nearly split me in half, then I was down with it. “Thank you, Taz,” I said softly, taking the tablets and water from him. He walked me to the door, helping me on with my jacket. It was getting light out. I wondered if my family was up and about yet. I grabbed my purse from his sofa and turned to leave. He hauled me back to face him. “So, you’re just going to leave without saying good-bye? Damn girl, did you leave my money on the dresser?”

I saw immediately that he was teasing me. He was being playful. He probably thought I felt embarrassed or self-conscious about what had transpired between us. The truth was I was fine with it. Still, I couldn’t help giggling at his attempt to look injured. I stood on my tiptoes and put my free hand around his neck. I kissed him softly on his lips. He kissed me back, his hand reaching over to tousle my hair. “Merry Christmas, Taz.” “Merry Christmas, baby girl.”

CHAPTER 16 As luck wouldn’t have it, the whole household was up when I quietly let myself in the front door. Not only that, but they were all perched in various seating positions in the living room, watching Bryce trying to open his Christmas presents. Slate was on the floor beside him, trying to help. Mom was immediately on her feet, her brow furrowed in anger or concern, possibly a combination of the two. “My God, Lindsey. We were worried to death about you. The fact that my car was gone was the only reason we hadn’t phoned the police yet.”

My grandmother sat in stony silence as if she was still in a fog. Slate looked up from where he was stretched out on the floor giving me a knowing look. It was almost as if he knew I had been up to no good. “I’m really sorry, Mom. I couldn’t sleep. I’m upset about Granddaddy. I just needed to take a drive, to think about things. Do you realize how much loss I’ve suffered?” I felt a little guilty about laying that on her, but it was the truth. Mom had felt relief when my father left her life. I could understand her feeling that way under the circumstances, but she had to realize that for me it was

different. He was still my father no matter what, and for nearly nineteen years, he had been a pretty damn good one. “Sweetie, we all feel the loss of your granddaddy but to just take off like that without telling anyone or leaving a note, it was inconsiderate. We were worried.” “I’m fine, Mom. I just have a lot to deal with right now.” “We all do, Lindsey. The way to deal with it is to behave maturely. That is not what you did.” “I said I was sorry, Mom. What more can I say? I’m sorry for the loss of Granddaddy. I’m sorry for the loss of your father, and Grandma’s husband,

okay? I lost a father too, you know? I know that doesn’t count with you, but it damn sure counts with me. Am I just supposed to write him off so easily, like you did?” My voice had risen with each word that spilled out. I was angry. I saw the look of pain in her eyes when I lashed out at her. For that moment, I just didn’t care. “Lindsey,” Slate said, his tone taking on a warning edge. I whirled around to look at him. “Lindsey what?” I asked harshly. “This is between my mother and me, Slate. You need to stay out of it.” He was on his feet in a split-second.

I saw Bryce jump as Slate’s voice got loud. “She is also my wife, dammit! I won’t have you disrespecting her in our home. Do you understand?” His incredibly blue eyes were flashing with anger. I shrank back from him knowing that I had crossed the line. In all honesty, I had never talked to my mother like that before. I never had reason to; but I still felt it was time I stood my ground with her. “I apologize, Mom,” I said. “I’m sorry, Grandma.” I looked over at my grandmother. She still seemed to be in her selfimposed ‘fog’ world. It was if she was

oblivious to it all. Maybe it was better for her that way. I turned and went towards the stairs. “I’m going to bed. Merry Christmas everyone.” I flew up the stairs to my room. I felt like a teenager that had missed curfew. Perhaps I had acted recklessly in taking off the way I did. Acting reckless was not me. It never had been. I went into the bathroom upstairs and scrubbed the makeup off my face. My skin had stubble burn in several places from Taz. I smoothed some face cream on to take the sting away. I looked at my reflection in the mirror. I didn’t look any different than

before. The important thing was that I felt differently. I owed that to Taz. He had given me the boost I needed to understand what occurs sexually between a man and a woman. While not experienced by a long shot, at least I knew that going into a relationship in the future I would not be the "bumbling" virgin anymore. I was at least a novice. That gave me some comfort. I returned to my bedroom and for the second time in the last several hours, peeled my clothes off. I climbed beneath my sheets and burrowed down under feeling some sense of relief. I fell into a restful sleep.

∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ There was a soft tapping on my bedroom door. “Lindsey,” my mom called out. “May I come in?” I rolled over in bed and saw the clock on my nightstand. It was nearly 2 p.m. I scooted up in my bed, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. “Yeah, Mom, come in.” She came into the room and took a seat on the edge of my bed. I looked at her waiting for her to speak. “Do you want to tell me what’s

going on with you?” she asked softly. I ran my fingers through my hair. It was a fair question. I just wasn’t sure how I could answer it without making her feel unnecessarily guilty, or coming across as a whiney brat. “A lot of stuff, I guess. Maybe a lot of it has been there for a while. With Granddaddy dying, I don’t know, a lot of stuff has just come to the surface; the finality of things with him and with Daddy.” “Lindsey, it isn’t as if your father died.” “He might as well have, Mom. Besides, how do we even know that he is still alive?” She didn’t say anything. She

continued to watch me. “If he is alive, I mean, how should I feel about that? He chose what he did and how he is living over me. Either way, dead or alive, I’ve lost my father, too. The difference is that we can all grieve for Granddaddy properly. Who in this house besides me even feels like grieving for the loss of my father?” I watched as my mother absorbed what I was saying. She chewed her bottom lip a sign of worry or stress. “Lindsey, I understand how you feel, but I can’t lie to you. You are right; I don’t feel the same way. There are so many things that I’ve never told you about your father. I’ve kept those things

to myself because I wouldn’t do anything to tarnish your feelings for him. These things happened long before he deserted us.” “I appreciate that, Mom. As difficult as it is, I’m trying to hold onto the good things that I remember about him and the life that we had together when we were a family. Now I get that during most of that time you weren’t happy. You never let that show, Mom. You only told me that when all of this stuff went down with him. I guess I have a question for you. Why? Why did you stay with him for nineteen years, when according to you, you were clearly miserable?” “That’s a good question, Lindsey. It’s a question I’ve asked myself over

and over again. There is no simple answer. I suppose for the first few years it was because I was young and dependent upon him. I didn’t know how things were supposed to be between a husband and a wife. I threw myself into raising you and trying to keep Jack happy. Later on, it just became the way of life that I had grown accustomed to. It was easier to stay and be miserable than exert the independence I had never possessed. Making life changes is no easy thing. It takes determination and energy. I guess I lacked both.” “Mom, I need to ask you something and I hope that you won’t take it the wrong way.”

She nodded and waited. “What if you hadn’t met and fallen in love with Slate?” “Are you asking me if I would have stayed with your father?” “In a way, I am. Let’s say none of the criminal activities he was involved with took place. Would you have continued to live that miserable life?” “Lindsey first of all, I need to clarify something with you. I would have left your father regardless of the fact that I met Slate. Everything would have unfolded exactly the way it did irrespective of your father’s criminal activities. I would still have danced as ‘Diamond Girl’ and carved an identity

out for myself. So, if in fact the criminal activities had not occurred, I would never have met Slate. The outcome between your father and I would still have been the same. We were done.” I looked at her for a moment, trying to choose my words carefully so as not to offend her. “Do you feel independent now, Mom?” “I’m not sure I follow.” “Well, the fact remains that circumstances being what they were from the time you met Daddy until now have not shown whether you could be independent if there was cause to be. I mean you left your parents’ home to be with Daddy. When you and Daddy split,

you were already with Slate. The closest you ever came to being an independent woman was when you did your stint as a dancer and earned a living.” I could tell I had pissed her off slightly. It was a valid question, especially in light of the fact that Grandma who had been under the direction of Granddaddy all of these years, was suddenly faced with carrying on without him. “I think I understand what you are asking me, Lindsey. You are right. I’ve never had to be independent. Jack was the decision maker, brought home the bacon, handled the finances the majority of the time. I suppose I have been

blessed financially being who my father was and knowing that no matter what, I would never end up on the streets homeless or anything. "I am happy with who I am now. I love my husband, my little baby boy, and my almost grown up daughter. I love that Slate and I make decisions together and respect each other’s differences. "If that were to ever change and I found myself becoming the Sammie I used to be, I can honestly say I would certainly exercise my right of independence. Does that answer your question?” I smiled over at her. I knew she was being honest about that and I was glad. She had found her niche finally, and I

knew that I would find mine. I wanted different things for myself than she did, but that was natural. I wanted a career and independence before committing to anyone else. It was if she was reading my thoughts. “Lindsey, I want you to know that I am really very proud of you. You have enough independence for the both of us. You do well in school and have aspirations that I admire. I am confident that no one will ever cause you to doubt yourself or the decisions you make. You have strength, integrity and you have a heart. I think just maybe you got the best of each of us and none of the bad.” “Oh, Mom,” I said, scooting to the

edge of the bed to hug her, “thank you for telling me that.” “I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you sooner. I’ve always felt that way about you.” “So, how is Grandma?” “Still rather quiet and withdrawn. I’ve made the funeral arrangements and our travel arrangements. We leave early morning on the 27th for Indianapolis. The funeral is on the 28th. I have left my return open pending how well I can get Mom situated at their condo there. I will probably spend a couple of weeks with her to help her sort their affairs out with their personal attorney.” “Are Slate and Bryce going?” “Yes both of them are coming with

us for the funeral, but Slate and the baby are flying back with you on the 29th. Is it a problem for you to watch Bryce while Slate works?” “No Mom, he’s my bubby. Of course, I would love to have some time with him. You’ll be back before the 11th then?” “God, I hope so. I can’t imagine it taking any longer than a week or two.” “Do you think Grandma will want to stay in Indianapolis?” “At this point, it is too early to tell. We just need to take it one day at a time. Now, one very important thing I came up to tell you is that there are a bunch of unopened Christmas presents under that

tree with your name on them. Come on.” “I think I better put some clothes on first, Mom.” “Okay, sweetie. See you in a few.” I felt better as I redressed in my earlier outfit. I didn’t want there to be a wedge between Mom and me ever.-

CHAPTER 17 (Taz) I heard the honking of Slate’s truck blowing out front. Shit, he was an impatient dick sometimes. I grabbed a hoodie shrugging it on as I pulled my front door shut behind me. It wasn’t as if I had kept him waiting. He said 7:30 a.m. and by my watch it was 7:37 a.m. Our meeting in Germantown wasn’t until 9:00 a.m. Even with rush hour traffic, we had plenty of time to get there. I got into his truck and saw the now familiar scowl on his face. Ever since

Sammie had been staying with her mom in Indianapolis, dude was in a foul mood. Christ, it had only been a little over a week since he returned without her. He must be jonesing that pussy big time. “How’s it going, bro?” I asked. “It’d be going better if I didn’t always have to wait on your sorry ass, Taz.” That well, huh? “Sorry, man, I was up late last night burning the midnight oil.” “Is that right,” he said with a scoff. “Anyone I know?” “I was studying, Slate. I am going to school, remember?”

“Yeah, I know.” “So, you heard anything from Sammie? Does she know when she’s heading home?” “Fuck no,” he said, taking a sip of the coffee he had picked up at McDonalds. “It sounds like she may be there for two more weeks, maybe longer.” Shit! Maybe I need to put in for a transfer. “Really? That blows.” “You got that right,” he replied. “Apparently there are a lot of things to go through before the will is even in Probate. His controlling shares of Banion Pharmaceuticals, real estate

holdings, stocks. They haven’t even filed the inventory for his estate yet.” “Hmm,” I said, “bet he was worth a pretty penny. You married well, dude.” Slate shot me an evil glare. “Hey, I’m just fuckin’ with you,” I said. “So who’s taking care of the rug rat?” “Lindsey. She’s home until the 12th. Shit, I don’t know what I’ll do with him if Sammie is not back by then. I think Lindsey would like to be back in Charlottesville now if she could.” “Doesn’t like pulling diaper duty, huh?” “No. It’s not that. It’s that Kyzer dude. He’s blowing her phone up big time these days.”

Oh, really? “Sounds like love,” I said almost wanting to choke on the words. “Or lust,” he said with a laugh. “Christ, Taz, you remember what it was like to be twenty years old and unencumbered?” “Hell, I still know what that’s like at twenty-nine, bro.” “Yeah, I guess you do at that,” he replied, chuckling. “I guess those college prep guys have it made, huh? Probably getting different tail every night.” “Not with Lindsey,” he stated firmly. “At least I don’t think so.” “Oh sorry, Slate. I didn’t mean to

disrespect your step-daughter. I was speaking in general terms.” “Yeah, I know, Taz. It’s not about that. It’s something else that happened over the holidays. I happened to walk into the room when Sammie and Lindsey were wrapping Christmas presents one afternoon. I overheard her tell Sammie she was still a virgin.” “No shit?” “Yeah. She sounded pretty pissed about it, too.” “Well, hey, you know, that’s a good thing, right? She’s not a skank.” “Well, then she pulls this disappearing act sometime in the early hours of Christmas morning. Comes trippin’ in damn near eight o’clock in the

morning. I thought I was going to have to medicate Sammie.” “Really?” “Yeah. Claims she was driving around to think or some shit like that.” “Maybe she was. I mean a lot went down the night before with her grandfather and all.” “Naw, there was definitely more to it than that. She had that “just fucked” look going on big time. Then she proceeds to get lippy with her mom and arrogant with me.” Shit, I know that didn’t go over well with Slate. “You know what I think?” Slate said. Fuck, here it comes.

“What, man?” “I think that Kyzer dude that so generously commissioned his rich daddy’s plane to bring my mother-in-law up from Florida stuck around. I think they planned to meet later.” “Well, you know, that is a thought,” I replied. “But hey, it’s really none of our business I guess, right?” “Yeah, I know. I just hope to hell she doesn’t fall for some slick Willy like her dad. Rat bastard.” “I hear that.” I was relieved when the topic of conversation between us changed. It wasn’t as if I wasn’t constantly thinking about Lindsey without Slate having to

bring her name up anyway. Christ, I was replaying that little tryst we had like an X-rated movie in my mind over and over again. I couldn’t recall ever being inside someone who was so sweet and so innocent, yet mind-blowing sexy at the same time. She was a fucking contradiction in terms. She was soft and sweet; lusty and sexy; reserved and abandoned at the same time. I had gone back to bed right after she left; wanting to revel in the scent of our sex all day long. It had killed me to finally have to wash those sheets after three or four days. Her scent was gone and it pissed me off. I wondered how it would have

felt to be inside of her without that damn condom on. I had never wondered that with any other girl before. God, I wanted to teach her so much more. I envisioned those sweet full lips of hers wrapped around my cock, her tongue tracing the length of it. “Taz, hello? Did you hear me?” “Sorry, man, I was drifting off to sleep.” “With your fucking eyes open?” “I do that sometimes.” “I’d like to review the notes we’ve made so far on this sting operation in Baltimore. Laraby is going to want it drawn out for him blow by blow, step by step. If we aren’t prepared we’ll be

jacking around with him all fucking day.” “Yeah, I know. Let me grab my notes.” Slate and I had been covering a drug cartel that had been operating in the Baltimore area for more than two years. They were a slick bunch. The cartel was small and closely knit. We had uncovered the fact that the leader was a semi-notorious mobster out of Philadelphia. He was the silent leader. Getting the inside scoop of the workings of this group had been extremely complicated. We had tracked the activity to a couple of well-paid longshoremen working out of the Port of Baltimore.

A beer exporter out of Belgium had created unique brand name ale that was imported with the rest of the legitimate ale and pilsners produced there and shipped to the U.S. The brand that was not legitimate was called ‘Augustus Ale.’ It was liquid cocaine. Slate and I had been working on our covers for weeks. The bust was to go down in a couple of weeks. According to the manifest, the shipment was to arrive on the 28th. The dock loaders were staying over their normal shift to unload the cargo during the late night hours. That was when we would make the bust. It was to be transported by a commercial truck to

Philadelphia before 6:00 a.m. Agent Hatfield had already been working undercover with the longshoremen for about three months. The shipments were like clockwork. This bust stood to net about $6.5 mi l l i o n dollars’ worth of illegal contraband. I was stoked. Our meeting went well with Laraby. He was on board with the plan. We went over the layout of the dock areas and entire waterfront region. We had our cover assignments and post areas cleared. There would be a host of undercover assistance if back-up was needed. Intel told us these guys were fully armed and had an arsenal at their disposal. That

included the thugs driving the semi-truck that always parked at the end of the pier. The trailer was never completely empty. There were armed personnel stowed back there as well with the ability to observe anything going on in the vicinity. On our way back to Falls Church, Slate’s phone chimed. “Hey, babe,” he said all smooth and sweet. “How’s it going?” It was quiet for a couple of minutes as Sammie was evidently filling him in on how it was going. “Are you fucking kidding me?” he said. Evidently, things are not going to

his liking. “Yeah, yeah. I understand, baby. I miss you, too. He is fine. Lindsey is spoiling him rotten. No, I’m in the car right now. Taz and I had a meeting today in Germantown on a project. Okay, babe. I’ll call you later tonight, how’s that? I will give him a kiss for you. I love you too, baby.” Christ! If I hadn’t heard it with my own ears I would not have believed that shit was coming out of Slate’s mouth. God damn, he used to get some tail. “Everything okay, babe?” “Shut the fuck up, Taz. One of these days, you should be so fucking lucky.” I laughed good-naturedly. I was actually happy for Slate. He was my best

friend. I would say he was like the brother I never had except I did have a brother. I had a sister, too. I just wasn’t tight with them anymore. They were different people than me. “Hey,” he said, interrupting my thoughts, “do you have plans for tonight?” “Not a thing, man. Want to hit some dives?” He looked over at me rolling his eyes. “Not exactly, Taz. Lindsey told me this morning she was making home-made lasagna. Just thought you might want to have something decent to eat for a

change. Plus, I could use a little male bonding, you know? Besides that, the Knicks are on tonight.” The thought of eating a home-cooked meal appealed to me. The thought of kicking back with some cold ones and watching the Knicks was even more appealing. The idea of seeing Lindsey and that sweet, sexy body of hers drove me to fucking distraction. “I’m in.”

CHAPTER 18 I pulled the lasagna out of the oven and set it on top of the stove. I shoved the tray of sliced garlic bread into the oven and set the timer. The salad was made so everything was good to go if Slate made it home when he said he would. I looked over at Bryce in his high chair. I had fed him earlier. He had been snacking on graham crackers while I had tossed the salad and set the table. He now had soggy pieces of cracker smeared on his face. “Look at you,” I said to him. “You’re never going to impress the girls with that

face." He gave me a big grin, drooling some liquid cracker down his chin. “Come on big boy; let’s get you cleaned up before Daddy gets home.” I removed him from his high chair and took him to the nursery for a diaper change and clean-up. I had dressed him so cute today in a pair of bib overalls that had a Harley Davidson emblem on the front, and a plaid flannel shirt underneath. He was such a good baby for me. Spending this time with him made me think how much I wanted a baby or two someday. Mom had called earlier to check on the both of us. She told me things were

going slow with getting the assets calculated for the estate. I was relieved to hear that Grandma had started to come out of her silent funk. My grandparents had a lot of friends and social connections in Indianapolis. Mom felt that Grandma would likely want to stay there for the time being, anyway. I finished up with Bryce and took him out to the family room where his play area was located. He was great about entertaining himself, especially with the new batch of toys that Santa Claus had delivered. I sat with him and we started putting a puzzle together when I heard Slate come in through the garage.

“Yo, Lindsey,” he bellowed. He could be so loud at times. “I’m back in the family room with Bryce,” I called out to him. Bryce had immediately recognized Slate’s voice. He was on his feet in a second, toddling out to greet him. “We’ve got one more for dinner,” Slate called from the hallway now. I got up to follow Bryce to the hallway. Slate scooped him up high in the air, causing the baby to squeal with delight. I had to laugh at how cute they were together. I looked past Slate and saw Taz coming through the front door. His eyes immediately went to mine and held.

“Oh. Hey, Taz,” I said as nonchalantly as I could muster. My heart did a tiny pitter-pat when I saw him. Damn, he always looked hot no matter what he wore or how disheveled he looked. “Lindsey,” he nodded. “I invited Taz to join us for dinner. We’re going to kick back later and watch the game.” “No problem,” I said with a smile. “There’s plenty, that’s for sure. I’ll just set another place.” I quickly left to go back to the kitchen. I hadn’t expected him to have that much of an effect on me. I hadn’t stopped thinking about the

morning he made love to me. I had played it over and over again in my mind. I had even given myself a sweet little orgasm to the memory of it a couple of times. I set the extra place. The timer went off for the garlic bread. I quickly removed it from the oven, managing to burn one of my fingers in the process. Damn! I needed to focus on other things besides Taz. Dinner was cordial. The conversation centered around Slate’s wondering when the hell Mom would be back, how the Knicks were playing so far in the season, and what new words Bryce had learned since Taz had last seen him.

“The lasagna was great, Lindsey,” Slate said after his third helping. “You’re going to make some lucky guy a wonderful wife someday.” “You didn’t just say that, right?” I asked, getting up and starting to clear. “I swear Slate, as much as you think you’ve got your cool on, you come up with some pretty lame stuff at times.” “Hey, it was supposed to be a compliment,” he replied, giving me a wink. “Lindsey, it was great,” Taz said. “Thank you.” “You’re welcome, Taz. See, Slate, that is a compliment. I think you could learn some things from Taz.”

I didn’t realize how that came out until it was too late. I immediately felt my face turn crimson. I looked over at Taz and saw the amusement in his eyes. “Learn from Taz? I don’t think so,” Slate laughed. Bryce was over by Slate’s chair, holding his arms up, starting to whine. “Hey Linds, tell you what. I’ll get Bryce ready for bed if you’ll clean up the kitchen.” I rolled my eyes at him. “You’re too good to me, Slate.” “I’ll help you Lindsey,” Taz volunteered. Slate went off to the nursery to get

Bryce changed and ready for bed. I started scraping and rinsing the dishes while Taz finished clearing. “So, how have you been?” he asked as I started loading the dishwasher. “I’ve been good; kind of anxious to get back to school after all of this. How’s it going with you?” Taz didn’t have a chance to answer me when my new phone vibrated on the counter. “Hold that thought,” I said, picking it up. It was Kyzer. “Hey Kyzer,” I said, “What’s going on?” I heard a soft mumble from Taz as he took up where I left off rinsing the dishes and loading them into the dishwasher.

“Just wondering what you were up to,” Kyzer said from his end. “Not much. Just finished dinner and cleaning up. Bryce wore me out today.” We made small talk for a couple of minutes before I told Kyzer I would call him back later. Taz was getting so loud with banging the pots and pans around in the sink I could barely hear what Kyzer was saying at the other end. I rinsed the last of the silverware, bending down to place it in the basket inside the machine. “There,” I said, straightening back up and latching the door to the dishwasher. “That should do it.” As soon as I turned, I bumped into

Taz. He was right there, inches away. I looked up questioningly at him. His eyes darkened as they gazed into mine. Before I knew what was happening, he pulled me to him and lowered his lips to mine. I knew this was dangerous territory. Slate could walk back in at any moment. Taz didn’t seem to care; neither did I. I laced my arms around him and kissed him back, loving once again the feel of his lips working mine. His hands were rubbing my backside as if he was feeling me for the first time. I finally pulled away, kissing his lips softly before I did. “Lindsey,” he said quietly, “I was wondering if perhaps you were ready for

your next lesson?” I immediately felt the butterflies surge deep within my belly. Was he serious? I contemplated it only for a moment. “I may be amenable to that. No strings?” “Absolutely no strings; you know the drill.” I smiled up at him. “I suppose I’m ready for my next lesson. When and where is it to be held, Professor Matthews?” I was totally getting turned on by the idea of playing the role of ardent student to my personal educator. “My place tonight around 10 p.m;

I’ll tell Slate at halftime I need to crash early.” “Okay. See you then, professor.”

CHAPTER 19 I hollered out to Slate around 10:30 p.m. that I was going out with Darcy for a while. He responded with the obligatory, “Okay, be careful.” I had hurried out the door before he had a chance to see what I was wearing. I had taken a luxurious bubble bath after making the arrangements with Taz. I had then invaded Mom’s spare closet upstairs that held all of the clothes she had moved from Indy that were either mine or hers. We hadn’t gone through them yet. I was delighted when I found what I

was looking for. It was a dark maroon and navy plaid skirt with pleats in the front. I had purchased it a couple of years ago when Daddy had taken me to Chicago on one of his trips. I pulled the dark maroon pullover sweater out of the closet that went with it. I dug through the box marked “Misc Lindsey’s Room” on the floor of the closet. I dug through the box finding all sorts of tee shirts, socks. I even found Robespierre, my cherished stuffed poodle that Daddy had brought home for me from Paris. He had been there on business for a couple of weeks when I was nine or ten years old. I had slept with that stuffed animal

from the time he gave it to me until I went off to college. I cuddled it to me thinking it was the closest bond I had with my father these days. I left it out. It belonged on my bed back at the apartment. I continued rooting through the box and finally located the pair of maroon tights I had worn with the ensemble. Perfect. I took the tights along with Robespierre back to my room. I dressed in the outfit, making sure that I put sexy underwear on underneath. I put a pair of short, black leather boots on with it. I had been letting my hair grow out. It still had a ton of layers so I gathered the hair at the crown which was now

long enough to pull up into a little ponytail sprout. I brushed a thin layer of bangs down on my forehead. I had applied some eye make-up and blush. I looked wholesome. I looked like some parochial school girl up to no good which was kind of close to the truth given my lack of experience. I drove the twenty minutes to Taz’s place, feeling excited and anxious at the same time. I was curious as to what our second lesson would entail. At any rate, I was sure it would be pure pleasure. I reached his porch. He had left the porch light on for me. I pressed his doorbell and in a matter of seconds he opened the door.

His eyes immediately perused the whole length of me and I could see he was a bit puzzled by my appearance. “I’m here for my lesson, Professor Matthews.” He totally got it then. He knew I was role-playing and a slow grin spread across his face. I knew he was in to it. He opened the door for me. “Come in, Ms. Dennison,” he replied. “Right on time; I like that.” He helped me off with my jacket, tossing it over on the sofa. “May I offer you some refreshments before our lesson begins?” “I wouldn’t be opposed to a glass of wine, Professor.”

“Have a seat,” he gestured. “I’ll be right back.” I took a seat on his sofa, crossing my legs and pulling my skirt down as much as I could with its short length to ensure I was prim and proper. I clasped my hands in my lap. He returned momentarily with two glasses of wine. I accepted the glass he offered, murmuring my thanks. He took a seat next to me. He raised his glass of wine up, tapping mine. “Here’s to continuing education,” he said softly, giving me a dazzling, sexy smile. “Cheers,” I replied. We both sipped our wine in silence.

His arm had moved over to rest against my shoulder, pulling me closer to him. It felt so good to have Taz wrapped around me. I leaned in against him loving the warmth of the wine and the headiness of being close. He gently took my glass from me, setting it on the coffee table. He was silent as he took me by the hand and led me to his bedroom. He had lit the aromatherapy candles. The musky scent of them permeated the room. The soft music was sensual as was everything else he had arranged. He pulled me to him and lowered his mouth to my lips, his tongue tracing the top and bottom, then parting them to

allow his tongue to explore. I melted into him, my tongue now dancing with his in perfect rhythm. “Umm,” I said, “It’s a good thing we both had garlic this evening." Taz pulled back and laughed. “I was thinking the very same thing. I gargled like three times.” “Me too,” I admitted. “Let’s proceed with my lesson, Professor.” “Of course, Ms. Dennison. First we need some erotic visuals. I need something to make my cock stand on end. I want you to undress for me, but I want you to take your time in doing so. Any questions?” “I understand,” I replied, kicking my

boots off first. Taz reclined on his elbows lying across his bed watching me. He was wearing a pair of grey drawstring sweats and a wife beater tee. His muscles were bulging as his weight was supported by his arms. It was hot. My fingers lifted the bottom of the sweater, pulling it slowly up and over my head. I let it drop to the floor. I then unzipped the side zipper of my skirt, and shimmied it down over my hips were it fell into a heap on my feet. I stepped out of it, kicking it aside. I hooked both thumbs into the waistband of my tights and lowered them down, praying my thong wouldn’t go with them and kill the erotic mood. It

didn’t. I stepped out of my tights now standing before him in my black lacy push-up bra, and matching thong. “More?” I questioned. “Take your bra off first,” he instructed. It was a front closure so I unhooked the clasp, shrugging free of it. “Very nice,” he said softly. “Now I want you to take your hands and very slowly, very gently, I want you to massage your breasts. I want you to bring your nipples to erection without touching them. Do you understand?” “Yes,” I replied. I cupped my breasts with my hands, moving them slowly around underneath,

allowing my thumbs to massage each side in a circular motion. My fingers then massaged the front parts, beneath the nipples firmly and methodically. My nipples grew taught and erect. “Very good,” he said. “Now you may touch and play with your nipples.” I did as instructed, noting the very nice tingling sensation my own fingers were causing. I rolled each nipple between my thumb and forefinger, drawing it out. Taz had one leg bent on the bed, his forearm resting on his knee. His other leg was stretched out. I could see the stiff erection he had going. “I want you to lower your panties down and off,” he instructed huskily.

Once again, I did as I was told, stepping out of them, standing totally naked to his smoldering gaze. “Put your fingers in your mouth and get them nice and wet.” I complied. “Now, take your fingers and spread the lips of your pussy apart. That’s right,” he said, watching me closely. “Ply the folds with your fingers and lightly rub the hood over your clitoris.” I did as he said; feeling little sparks of pleasure unfold. “Does that feel good?” he asked. “Oh, yes,” I answered truthfully. “That’s a good girl,” he soothed. “Don’t stop what you’re doing with

your right hand, Ms. Dennison, but with your left hand, I want you to put your thumb in your bellybutton." He is not serious! I hesitated, hoping like hell this wasn’t some sort of joke he was playing. “Trust me,” he said, sensing my reluctance. “I want to show you something.” I placed my left thumb in my bellybutton. Now what? “Take you index finger on that same hand, and where the fingertip lands, I want you to press in, not with the fingernail, but with the pad on the tip of your finger every quarter inch or so above your pubic area. It might take

several attempts, but keeping pressing that area until you press a spot that makes you feel like you have to pee.” I did as he bade, pressing the pad of my finger in several areas back and forth above my pubic area. I finally put a bit more pressure into the push and on the third spot I pressed, bingo! “Right here,” I said, my eyes widening. “That is your G-Spot, Ms. Dennison.” I was thrilled to know that I had one, though I suspected those times Taz had touched this very area inside, first with his finger, and then with his dick was all of the verification I needed.

“Now,” he continued, “I want you to insert the finger of your right hand, while pressing on the outside with your left finger so that you can see what it feels like internally yourself.” “Really?” “Yes,” he said firmly. “You need to know how to please yourself first and foremost. Rather than standing, it is much easier if you come over here and take a position on the bed.” I walked over and climbed in bed beside him. Taz lost his sweats and tee shirt in two seconds flat. He stretched out on his side right next to me. I was lying on my back. He leaned over and brought my

legs up so my knees were bent. “I think this is probably the best position. Let me help getting you lubricated if you have no objections.” I smiled up at him. “No objection whatsoever,” I said. He leaned down and his mouth was immediately on the lips of my pussy. He softly kissed the area with his lips; his tongue gently traced the folds and swirled around my clitoris. Oh my God! His mouth and tongue expertly worked my pussy inside and out, just as he had done that first time. I felt my hips move provocatively in response to what he was doing. I just wanted him to do me: his mouth, his

cock, I cared not which, but I wanted it to be him, not me. Taz, I mean Professor Matthews, had other plans. “There,” he said, “I think you are well on your way. I want you to do as I instructed and bring yourself to orgasm while I watch.” He sat back on his haunches, his humungous hard-on just within reach. How was he able to stop like that? I resumed my finger pressing of the external G-Spot area while inserting my index finger inside. I didn’t like the way it felt in there. Yuck! I had no issues whatsoever with masturbating my clitoris to climax, but

going up inside all of that didn't appeal to me. It reminded me of searching inside the cavity of a thawed Butterball turkey, groping around for that freaking bag that contains the neck and gizzards, which invariably was at the ass end of the turkey. I looked at Taz with my best ‘Do I have to?’ look. Professor Matthews wasn’t giving me an inch, or should I say at least eight of them at the moment. “You’re going to need two fingers,” he advised flatly. I grudgingly inserted my middle finger to join my forefinger in this elusive search.

“Relax,” he ordered softly. “Keep pressing on the outside intermittently while the two fingers inside make a motion like this.” He held two fingers up and made the ‘come here’ motion. I knew that was it! That’s why I had coined it his “come hither” move. I did as instructed, relaxing back and watching him. The fact that he was totally turned on by this started turning me on. I relaxed even more and let my fingers do the walking. It was no longer grossing me out. My body was responding to my own touch. I was starting to feel pleasure seep in around my fingers. The G-spot was now

evident to me from the inside. It was a small raised area. It felt like it had tiny ridges. Wow! I continued my “come hither” move while now firmly pressing my fingers in a circular motion on the same area outside. This was feeling freaking great as my tongue traced my lower lip. My hips were now moving in a circular motion with my hands. I moaned softly. “That’s it, baby,” Taz said. I looked over at him beneath my lashes. His hand was firmly braced around hi s shaft, moving up and down on it, matching my own rhythm. I knew that I was ready. I wasn’t sure about him.

I increased the tempo of my fingers, and now writhed in pleasure as my orgasm peaked. I moaned loudly, as I felt my insides pulsate with the release. The warm, clear, liquid spilled out of me onto my hand as I shook with the spasms of my self-induced climax. I immediately sat up, pushing Taz back. I was going to bring his orgasm to me. I knelt beside him, pushing his hand away as I lowered my mouth to his very large, much engorged cock. I was determined I wasn’t going to do this wrong. I looked up at his face.

“Trace the length of it with your tongue, baby.” I did as instructed, allowing my fingers to ply the skin of his scrotum very gently. “Umm, that’s good,” he said, “Now swirl around it like you would an ice cream cone.” I did as instructed. Soon, I didn’t need instructions any longer. I could tell by Taz’s body language and dirty language what he liked. I spread his legs apart, crawling between them facing him. His one arm was crooked underneath his head so that he could watch. I continued tongue

swirling and licking the length of his shaft. “I want you to take it all now,” he said. My hands guided his erection into my mouth, gently pulling it in and out while my fingers massaged it. I went up and down on it, allowing my teeth to gently scrape against it from time to time. “Oh God, baby,” he rasped. “You better stop. Finish me with your hands.” There was no way. I wanted to taste him. I continued on, ignoring his words. I felt the throbbing first. I continued with what I was doing and then it stilled. Seconds later I felt my mouth filled

with the warm, salty cum. I swallowed and swallowed until there was no more. Taz’s hands were in my hair, twisting it as he moaned with the release. He pulled me by the shoulders up on top of him. We kissed like savages. It was surreal. I lay there on top of him perfectly content. His hands were on my back. His fingers were gently tracing a circular pattern on my skin. I finally perched my head on my hand looking into his now very green eyes. “Well, Professor, how did I do?” “Excellent performance, Ms. Dennison. Would you care to stick

around for some extra credit?”

CHAPTER 20 It was after 2:00 a.m. in the morning when I quietly let myself in the house. I needed to get my ass to bed. Bryce would be up early and though Slate was great about getting him changed and fed before he left for work, the two of them made enough noise to wake the dead. I peeled my clothes off throwing a tee shirt on to sleep in. I went to the bathroom and brushed my teeth. I found my skin cleanser and rinsed my face, then squeezing the foaming gel into my hands to massage into my face. I cupped my hands with

water splashing it over my face to rinse. As I turned my face to the side to grab a hand towel I spotted it. Holy mother of Christ I had a huge hickey on my neck! Taz and I had pretty much fucked for two hours after my lesson in selffulfillment. I thought back to which time might have led to the hickey. It must have been when we were in the chair in his living room. He had me on his lap, facing him, riding his shaft up and down. Taz was extremely intense when he climaxed. I recalled him kissing my neck roughly as he came, amongst other things. He was quite verbal as well. I

blushed, thinking about the words he used when he talked dirty to me. At least it is winter time. I was fairly certain I could locate a turtleneck or two in that closet to wear for the next couple of days until it disappeared. I climbed into bed totally spent, exhausted and energized at the same time. How weird was that? I tucked the covers up under my chin and relaxed against my pillows. I bit my lower lip and smiled reflecting on our evening as teacher and student. It was hot. It had even been a little bit intimate. As much as Taz would reject the idea, I had the feeling he just might be taking a bit of a shine to me. We had relaxed on his bed, totally

exhausted and spent, trying to get our heart rates back to normal. I recalled how he pulled me against him with one arm. He planted soft little butterfly kisses on the damp skin of my neck and shoulders. His face had nuzzled against me, and he had whispered, “I want to ravish you.” It brought fresh goose bumps to my skin just remembering it. I needed to put those carnal memories out of my head or I would never fall asleep. Just before I drifted off to sleep, it occurred to me that I hadn’t called Kyzer back. I made a mental note to do that first thing tomorrow once Slate had left

for work. For whatever reason, it seemed to get on Slate’s nerves that Kyzer and I talked a couple of times each day. He felt the need to eavesdrop and then roll his eyes. I would see Kyzer in five days. I was looking forward to it. Darcy picked me up around noon on the 12th. We had only spoken on the phone a couple of times since the night of the Christmas Eve gathering. She of course, knew about my grandfather’s passing and had sent flowers to the funeral home in Indianapolis. Apparently, Darcy had struck up a relationship with Darin that had consumed the bulk of her time over the holiday break. I sensed she dreaded

going back to Charlottesville. I knew I would get filled in on all the details during the two hour drive back to school. Slate had been forced to take a couple of days off from his stint as an agent, something he didn’t like to do on short notice. He and Bryce were flying to Indianapolis so that Bryce could stay with Mom until she finished up with the estate legalities there. He loaded my suitcase into Darcy’s car, while I held Bryce and covered his sweet little baby cheeks with kisses. Slate shut the lid of the trunk, taking Bryce from me.

“Lindsey, call me when you get there, okay? I’ll have my cell with me at all times. Your car is ready to be picked up at the police impound in Charlottesville. They know the circumstances so you won’t have to pay a fee or anything for them storing it in the impound lot while you’ve been gone. If there should be any problem with that, call me, got it?” “Yes, Slate,” I said. “Tell Mom I’ll call her tomorrow night, okay? I’m going out with Kyzer tonight so it will be too late to call after that.” Slate frowned for some unknown reason. I wasn’t sure what his deal was with Kyzer. They had only met briefly

the one time and he seemed to have been okay with him then. It was since Granddaddy passed away that he seemed bugged about Kyzer. “I’ll do it,” he said. “Damn, I wish she’d get home.” “I know, Slate. Thanks for making her happy.” He gave me a hug which was so not like Slate - with me anyway. I knew he felt weird about the words we had on Christmas morning. I felt we had resolved the issue. “You behave, Lindsey; you too, Darcy.” Darcy gave him one of her dazzling smiles and nodded as I got into her car. Slate stood there with Bryce in his arms

watching us as we pulled out of site. “God, your step-daddy is hot, girl,” she said. “If he were my step-daddy, I believe I would misbehave just so he would spank me,” she giggled. “Well, I did kind of piss him off on Christmas morning,” I admitted. “He was in my face because of something I said to my mother.” “Really? That doesn’t sound like you, Lindsey. I can’t imagine you spouting off to your mom at all.” “They were pissed because I was out nearly all night.” “Shut the fuck up! You and I need to talk. What the hell was that about?” I tried to act nonchalant about it

knowing that Darcy was going to come apart when I told her. I relished in being able to deliver my good news to her. “Darcy, I am happy to inform you that I finally had my V-card stolen.” She burst into a fit of laughter, having to pull her car over to the curb. Clearly, it was not the reaction I had expected from my BFF. She finally composed herself and turned to me. “I think you meant to say ‘swiped’ didn’t you?” “Swiped . . . stolen, same thing, isn’t it?” She shook her head, still giggling. “It is swiped, like the way they swipe a credit card when you buy

something?” “Well, whatever,” I replied, waving my hand dismissively. “The important thing is that I am no longer a virgin.” She pulled back into traffic and looked over. “Okay, so do I get to know who?” “It was Taz.” “That is pretty much what I figured,” she replied. “The chemistry between you two is fairly obvious.” “What do you mean?” “Just what I said. I knew you wanted to fuck him and told you just as much at Thanksgiving. Spill the details now.” I filled her in on the particulars and watched as her eyes widened during

specific parts of the story. When I finished she turned to me. “So, what you are basically telling me here is that you and he are fuckbuddies?" “W e r e fuck-buddies,” I said, emphasizing past tense. "It was a wonderful learning experience for me. Now I can focus on a relationship and not be worried about coming across as some novice.” “I see,” she said, nodding her head. “So, that was all it was and you’re down with that?” “Of course,” I replied. “I feel very cosmopolitan about it, actually. I had a sexual fling with an older guy who is totally hot, and he taught me some tricks

along the way. It was a win-win situation for both of us.” “Well, who am I to knock holes in that? So, then I need to ask who is on the horizon for relationship sex?" “Kyzer Stanfield.” “Are you talking about that rich dufus who was escorting you to and from class right before holiday break?” “He is not a dufus, Darce. He is extremely intelligent, cute, and is even a jock.” “He is? What sport?” “Golf,” I replied. “Oh, please,” she replied with a full eye roll. “That’s not a jock-type sport.” “Oh, really? Why don’t you tell

Tiger Woods that?” “Okay, so you seriously want to start dating Kyzer, for real?” “Why not? He is kind and considerate. I told you about him sending his father’s private jet up to bring my grandmother to us. We’ve been talking a couple times every day since then.” “Uh huh,” she replied. “Did he happen to call while Taz was fucking your brains out?” She started with the laughter again and by this time, it was getting on my nerves. “You know what, Darcy? I’m just not going to tell you a flipping thing anymore if all you want to do is poke fun at me.”

“Hey, Linds, I’m sorry. You’re right. If Kyzer is the one you’re attracted to, then by all means, pursue the relationship. But, if you’re simply looking to get laid on a regular basis, it seems to me that you might be better suited to someone like Taz.” I whirled around from where I had been staring out the car window to face her. “You have got to be kidding! He and I have nothing in common, Darcy. That is insane.” “Okay,” she said, “Just sayin’ that’s all. It doesn’t just have to be about the sex forever.” I wanted to get off of the subject of

Taz with her. She was clueless as to how Taz operated. I couldn’t imagine Taz ever being a one-woman man for starters. For another thing, Taz made no bones about his career and where he wanted to take it. That would never fit into the path I had chosen for myself. “So Darce, tell me what’s going on with you and Darin.” She smiled big. “He is so fine,” she said. “And I gotta tell you, what that ‘G-Man’ can do with his tongue is totally, freaking amazing.” “Really? So are you guys like fuckbuddies or what?” “I think it may be more than that.

He’s pretty busy with his training and stuff, but we made plans to see each other when we can.” “That’s great,” I replied, feeling a bit envious of her. Darcy had broken up last year with the guy she had gone with all during high school and through her first year of college. It had been difficult but he went to the University of Wisconsin and the distance had been too much. “Hey,” I said, “have you talked to Jill over the holidays?” “Yeah, she called me yesterday as a matter of fact. She’s not getting in until tomorrow night. Apparently, some drama went down with her and her

boyfriend Michael out there. She tried to break things off and he didn’t take it well.” “You’re kidding. What happened?” “From what Jill said, he got fairly wasted and totaled his car. He broke one of his legs pretty bad. He is having surgery today so they can put pins in it. She said she didn’t feel right not staying there through his surgery.” “Oh, my God,” I said. “I bet she really is in love with Gabe.” “It appears that way. I hope she sticks to her guns. Jill is soft-hearted. This thing with Michael has laid a gigantic guilt trip on her.” We spent the rest of our ride talking about Jill and Darin mostly. I was happy

for Darcy. I was hopeful that Jill would stick to her guns. Darcy dropped me at the main police station when we reached Charlottesville. She waited to make sure there were no snags in getting my car. Once back at our apartment complex, I pulled my VW in the space right next to hers. We unloaded her trunk and trudged across the bridge-way towards our building. Once inside our apartment, we dropped our baggage to the floor. “God, I hate unpacking,” she said, collapsing down on the overstuffed sofa. “I’ll go check our mailbox,” she offered, getting back up on her feet and heading

out. Our mailboxes were located on the ground level of the building, off from the lobby entrance. I fumbled around in my purse for my new phone and called Kyzer. “Hey, you,” he answered. “Did you make it back?” “Just now came through the door,” I said, smiling. “How about you?” “I am just now heading from the airport in my car. Are we still on for dinner tonight?” “Absolutely,” I answered. “Casual dress okay?” “Perfect,” he replied. “I’ll pick you up around seven, okay?” “I’ll be ready.”

“I really missed you, Lindsey.” “I missed you too, Kyzer. See you soon.” I felt happy and content. I was looking forward to spending time with Kyzer this evening. I suppose this was our first official date. I lugged my suitcase to my room and placed it on the bed. I might as well get the unpacking over with. I was fairly certain Darcy would put off her unpacking until tomorrow or the next day. She was known to procrastinate. I unloaded my suitcase, perching Robespierre at the head of my bed on one of my pillows. He was a bit worse for the wear. The purple velvet ribbing

around the poodle’s neck was a bit frayed. Maybe I would buy some ribbon and spruce the old boy up a bit. I had finished unpacking when I heard Darcy come back into the apartment. “You wouldn’t believe the stack of mail we had,” she said. “I had to go to the office because there was a note in our mailbox that a package had been delivered for you that they were holding.” “Really?” I asked, coming down the hallway to the living room. “Yep. Looks like flowers,” she commented with a sly grin. “They were delivered just today, so someone knew you’d be back.”

She handed the long white box over to me. It was tied with a gorgeous purple silk ribbon. Someone knew that purple was my favorite color. I sat down on the couch with it in my lap, untying the large bow ribbon, letting it drop to the floor in my excitement. “I bet it’s from Taz,” she said. “I bet it’s from Kyzer,” I replied. “He’s extremely thoughtful that way.” I managed to get the ribbon off and carefully lifted the lid off of the box. My eyes widened as I saw a dozen, longstemmed black roses inside. Black roses? What the hell? “Black roses?” Darcy asked. “Who would send you black roses?”

I lifted the stems up and saw there was a small envelope with a card underneath. I pulled it out and opened it. The message on the card was typed. It read: ‘The unfortunate death of Sidney Banion may be the end for him, but a new beginning for others. That which is hidden must be found and protected.’ “What the hell?” Darcy said as I handed the card to her. “Is this a condolence or a threat?” “I don’t know what to think of it,” I sputtered. “It just seems like a weird message for me.” There was no way to tell what florist had delivered it. The box had no

markings whatsoever on it. Darcy and I both jumped when my phone rang. I reached over and saw that it was Slate. He was probably wondering why I hadn’t called him yet. “Hey, Slate,” I answered. “I was just checking to see if you were still on the road. I was watching traffic on the interstate on my iPhone and saw that there was a major accident about ten miles north of your exit. Where are you?” “Oh, uh we’re home now. I’m sorry. I was getting ready to phone you. I’ve got my car now so everything is fine.” “Well, that’s good,” he said. “We’re going to be taking off for the airport in about an hour.”

“Slate?” “Yeah?” “I had a dozen black roses delivered here today with a weird note inside. I’m not sure who sent them or what the message means, but it has something to do with Granddaddy.” “Read the note to me, Lindsey.” I did has he instructed. I heard him curse at the other end. “Listen,” he said, “I need to call this in to my superior. Since I’m leaving town, someone needs to investigate this. Make sure you keep those roses in the box and don’t touch them anymore, okay?” I nodded.

“Lindsey, did you hear me?” “Oh, yeah Slate, I will.” “I want you to go and immediately wash your hands with hot water and anti-bacterial soap. If Darcy touched them, have her do the same.” “Do you think they were poisoned?” “At this point, anything is possible. This is some crazy shit. Just please, do as I say. I’ll call you back as soon as I can. In the meantime, do as I instructed.” I got off of the phone and told Darcy what Slate had said. We both made a beeline for the bathroom and scrubbed our hands with scalding water and plenty of soap. Afterwards, I returned to the living

room with a pair of rubber gloves covering my hands. I gingerly lifted the cover of the flower box that was still on the sofa and place it back on the box. I couldn’t bear to look at those roses ever again. It was about forty minutes later when Slate called back. He was just getting ready to leave for the airport. He said that someone from the department would be at our apartment within the next few hours. He told me to sit tight and relax. He said the feds would be handling this and would involve the local authorities on an “as needed” basis. I promised him that I would. He said he would call later when he got to Indianapolis. I asked him to not let Mom

know what was going on. I knew how she would worry. He agreed for now we would keep her in the dark.

CHAPTER 21 Kyzer had picked me up right on time dressed in designer casual. I had opted for a new pair of tight jeans with a V-neck sweater Mom had bought me for Christmas. “You look great,” he greeted me as I opened the door for him. I grabbed my leather jacket and told Darcy I would see her later. “Can I talk to you for a sec, Linds?” she asked. “Sure,” I replied, looking over at Kyzer momentarily. “I’ll be just a sec.” I followed her into our small kitchen, curious as to what she needed to say

before I left. “What am I supposed to do when whatever G-man your stepfather is sending gets here for Chrissake?” “First off, Darce, why are you referring to them as G-Men? This is starting to sound like something in a bad Edward G. Robinson movie.” “Who?” she asked, her brow furrowed. “Never mind,” I replied brusquely. Darcy had no clue about my passion for old black and white movies. “I mean, don’t you think you should stay here until he gets here?” “Look Darce, I haven’t seen Kyzer in a couple of weeks. I want to spend time

with him. I’m safe, okay? When whoever it is gets here, you know just as much as I do about those freaking roses so whatever.” “Okay,” she shrugged. “I’ll see you later then.” I was sick of feeling like a prisoner. The whole time I was at Mom and Slate’s I had no car to use, and half of the time I didn’t even have a phone at my disposal. I was not going to be some paranoid lunatic tonight. I was going to have a nice dinner with Kyzer. Kyzer took me to a local restaurant called “Spoons.” I loved the atmosphere there. It was quaint, yet trendy. We ordered white chicken chili and burritos. “Kyzer, I want to thank your father

so much for his generosity with dispatching his private plane for the benefit of my grandmother. That was extremely generous and compassionate. Would it be appropriate for me to call him personally? I mean, I figure he must be a busy man, but I wanted to extend my gratitude personally.” “Lindsey, there is no need; trust me. I know we don’t know each other well, so you don’t know the specifics about my family.” I bit into my burrito waiting for him to continue. I figured all families had their idiosyncrasies. After all, my family was a perfect example of that. I hadn’t shared any of that with Kyzer.

“I’m an only child. My mother died when I was only four years old. I was basically raised by household staff and a nanny. My father was extremely busy with his company, The Stanfield Group. It is headquartered in Miami. Even though our home is in Naples, my father always preferred the gulf side of Florida as opposed to the Atlantic side. So, it meant that my father spent the work week in an apartment in Miami and then came home to Naples on the weekends. Essentially, I didn’t have the normal, day-to-day interaction with him that is typical growing up.” I could emphasize with Kyzer. Even though my father had been a busy

executive, climbing his way up in my grandfather’s company, he was home as much as possible while I was growing up. Still, I knew how it felt to participate in a spelling bee, or a soccer tournament and not have my father there watching me. Kyzer’s situation was even worse being that his mother passed away when he was at such a young age. “Kyzer, I am so sorry. That must have been really tough on you.” “It was,” he replied, “but I understood. He provided extremely well for me. He always made sure that I knew he only wanted the very best for me.” I nodded my head. I understood how he felt to a certain extent.

“About four years ago, my father remarried. I was away at military school at the time. It caught me by surprise, because I couldn’t figure out how he had the time to even cultivate a relationship as much as his business kept him busy. "His new wife had worked at his corporate office. That is how they met. My stepmother is not the type you read about in fairytales. She is actually a very nice, compassionate, and caring person. I don’t remember much of my mom, but I know that she would approve of my father remarrying a woman like my stepmother." He paused, collecting his thoughts and then continued.

"Anyway, my father started showing signs of dementia about a year after they married. My stepmother would not put him in some institution or nursing home. He is still at home with nurses and my stepmother watching over him. I guess what I’m trying to say is that my father is way past the decision-making stage these days. So, if you want to thank anyone, it would have to be my stepmother, Sue Ellen. She pretty much is running everything since my father is, well, incapacitated permanently. She has managed his business plus the household responsibilities. She is adamant that I need to focus on my studies and not worry about anything.”

“Oh, Kyzer,” I said, “that is so sad but I am so glad that your stepmother has stepped up to the plate and understands the importance of you continuing your education. I imagine at some point, you will be taking over your father’s position at his company.” “That’s the plan,” he replied. “I’m interning this summer at one of his pilot facilities in Atlanta. It was the last startup facility he oversaw before he got ill. I don’t even like to think about it though because that means my dad will be gone forever.” I reached across the table, capturing his hand into mine. I hadn’t shared with him anything about the situation with my

father except that he was absent from my life. To be honest, I felt ashamed. I knew Kyzer wasn’t the type to pass judgment, but it was difficult for me to articulate the events as painful as they were. “Kyzer,” I said hesitantly, “I should probably fill you in on the situation with my father. I hope when I tell you this it doesn’t change the way you feel about me.” For the next hour, Kyzer sat across from me and listened intently as I spilled my guts about what had transpired over the past year and a half with respect to my family right up to the delivery of the black roses this afternoon. He was riveted as the story unfolded.

“Wow,” he said when I finished. “I mean, Lindsey, I had no idea what you’ve been through. I am so sorry. I guess that saying is true about bad things happening to good people.” “I definitely have some nasty baggage, that’s for sure.” “Hey, Lindsey,” he said, rubbing his fingers over mine, “this changes nothing about the way I feel about you. I admire your strength and integrity. I can see that you are nothing like how you described your father.” “The thing is, Kyzer, I still love my father. I don’t like the person he turned out to be, but he is still my dad, you know?”

“I think that is very understandable. It’s that unconditional love; parents have it for their children and vice-versa. So, what do you think that message meant?” “I have no clue. My roommate said that black roses signify death or the end of something. The message certainly wasn’t one of condolence. It almost seemed as if it was a warning of some type.” “Do you think your father sent them?” “I don’t see how that is possible. If he is in fact back here in the country, I can’t see any reason for him to want to spook me like that.” “Yeah, I agree. But if he is back in

the U.S., don’t you think he would try and contact you if nothing else to let you know that he’s okay? Of course, you would have to keep that confidential from everyone.” “I truly don’t know how my father thinks. He certainly turned out to be someone different than the man who raised me. The note mentioned my granddaddy, but he was pretty much out of the day-to-day activities there. I don’t know, but my stepfather is on it.” “Well, it does help having a special agent with the FBI in the family with something like this. I’m sure everything will turn out okay, Lindsey. In the meantime, do you feel safe?” “I’m okay. I can’t think of any reason

why I would be targeted for anything. I barely had any connection to Banion Pharmaceuticals with the exception of the brief stint the summer before last when I interned there. I was pretty much clueless as to what was going on at the time anyway.” “Still, if you would feel better having me take you to and from school, walk you to your classes or whatever, I am at your disposal.” I gave him a smile. He was truly an awesome person. “Thank you, Kyzer. I’m alright, but if that changes, I’ll let you know.” We walked hand-in-hand from the restaurant. Kyzer opened the car door

for me. As we returned to my apartment complex, we discussed our schedules for winter quarter. We were in two classes together, which delighted me. He walked through the lobby with me and pressed the button for the elevator. At the door to my apartment, I fumbled with the key for a moment, suddenly feeling a bit nervous. I was considering inviting him in for coffee, but yet I didn’t want to sound like I was asking for more than that. I wanted to do this right with Kyzer. I decided I would extend the invitation. It would be coffee only. As I turned to extend the invitation, the door to the apartment was suddenly jerked open. We both turned to see who

had opened it, and found ourselves staring into the very piercing, extremely angry, green eyes of Taz. “Where the fuck have you been, Lindsey?” Taz was fuming, expecting an answer. I was still in shock as to why he was even here. It was taking me a moment to digest his presence. “I asked you a question.” Now that I had digested the fact that Taz was in my apartment, I was trying to figure out why the hell he was in my face. Pissed was finally making an appearance in me. “Excuse me? Apparently I didn’t get the memo that stated I needed permission

to leave my apartment.” Taz was shooting me a dirty look. He then looked past me at Kyzer, who I’m sure was as horrified as I was at the rudeness Taz was exhibiting. “Lindsey, say good-night to Kyler there and get inside.” I was humiliated at the way Taz was treating me. “It’s Kyzer,” I hissed, turning away from his angry face to look at Kyzer. Taz was making no move to give the two of us any privacy. If that’s the way he wanted to play it, so be it. “Kyzer, I had a wonderful time this evening. Thanks for listening.” “I’ll see you in class tomorrow, Lindsey. I had a great time as well.”

He leaned in to give me a quick kiss. I took the opportunity of wrapping my arms around his neck to make that kiss last a bit longer since I had a very rude audience of one watching. We pulled apart hearing Taz tapping his fingers impatiently against the door where his arm was wrapped around it. “‘Nite,’ I said, as I turned to brush past Taz into my apartment. Once Taz had closed the door behind us, I whirled around to face him, not even trying to hide my anger. “You just embarrassed the hell out of me and I’d like to know why,” I demanded, putting my hands on my hips and glaring.

“Look, babe,” he halfway snarled, “it doesn’t please me one damn bit that I was delegated the assignment of driving down here to babysit you until Slate gets back. But, since he is my superior, I have no choice in the matter.” “What?” I asked, totally confused that Slate felt I needed a watchdog because of those freaking roses. I looked around and noticed the box containing the roses were gone. Taz read my mind once again. “One of our agents accompanied me and the roses are on their way to the lab in Quantico for analysis.” “This is ridiculous,” I said. “They were roses, albeit they were creepy, but

come on, really? This is something the FBI is going to care about?” “My sentiments exactly, Lindsey, but I don’t give the orders, I just follow them. You’re stuck with me for a few days, get over it.” I realized that Darcy was not around. I wondered if she knew about all of this. She probably did since someone would have let Taz in the apartment. “Your roommate is out. I think I made her nervous with all of my ranting and raving,” he replied. I saw a hint of a smile cross his face, the first indication that his anger with me was subsiding. “I can just imagine,” I said, taking my jacket off.

“Didn’t Slate tell you someone from the bureau would be coming up here?” “Yeah,” I replied, starting towards the kitchen. “Then why did you leave?” I stopped in my tracks and turned to look at him. “Because I had a date, Taz; because I knew that Darcy would be here, and because Slate never specifically told me that I wasn’t allowed out, okay?” I could feel my eyes bugging out at him which was my sign that he needed to back off. He stifled a grin, shaking his head back and forth. “So, what’s the game plan?” I asked.

“Until Slate gets back, you’re stuck with me. I take you to and from school and crash here.” “You’ve got to be kidding.” “Yeah, it’s a dirty job, I know. I guess that’s why I make the big bucks, Lindsey.” He gave me one of his sexy grins. “Well, don’t think for a second that w e ’ r e sleeping together. I’m through with my training. In case you didn’t notice, I am attempting to spread my wings here.” “Don’t you mean your legs?” he halfway snapped. Where did that come from? I ignored the barb and continued my

interrupted journey to the kitchen. “Do you want a beer?” I called out to him as I opened the door to the fridge. “Yes, please, Ms. Dennison.” He damn well not get any idea we will be playing ‘teacher-student’ again. I grabbed a beer from the fridge and a wine cooler for me and rejoined him in the living room. He was sprawled out on the couch, reaching for the remote. Christ! I bet we are going to be stuck with ESPN for the next couple of days. I handed him his beer, taking a seat at the end of the sofa while he settled on a basketball game. “Do you have your schedule handy, Lindsey? We need to go over it. I’ve

already pulled up a map of the campus. I want to familiarize myself with the various buildings where you have classes. I will plot out the time and location on the map so that I can conduct some surveillance while you are in class.” “Yeah, sure. I’ll go get it.” Taz and I spent the next hour (during commercials) with my schedule. He had a computerized map on his government-issued laptop that he used to mark locations and times of my classes for each day of the school week. He then pulled up info on all of my professors. He made a quick call to someone who was able to electronically

send him a roster of all of the other students in my classes. “Oh, I see here that Kazwell is in two of your classes this semester, Lindsey. It looks like he’s in your English Composition III class and Physics II.” “His name is Kyzer, and I think you know that by now.” He smirked and continued entering data into his laptop. My phone rang and I grabbed my purse to retrieve it. It was Kyzer. “I’m going to take this in my room,” I said, heading down the hall. “Hey,” I answered. “Hey, Lindsey. I just wanted to check and make sure that everything was

alright.” “Thanks, Kyzer. Listen, I’m sorry about the way that Taz behaved. It seems my stepfather is a worrywart and sent Taz here to look after me.” “Is this because of those roses you received?” “Partly. The roses are being tested at some government lab.” “Tested? For what?” “I don’t know,” I shrugged. “I personally think it’s an over-reaction. I’m sure they think my father is involved in some way.” “Are you sure you don’t want me to pick you up for school tomorrow, Lindsey?”

“Actually, that’s covered now. It seems that is one of Taz’s responsibilities while he’s here. But hey, I’ll see you at school. Do you want to have lunch tomorrow?” “That sounds great,” he replied. “Try not to worry. I’m sure all of this will blow over and turn out to be nothing.” “I’m sure you’re right. Goodnight Kyzer.” I went in and took a shower while the sound of the television blasting the basketball game droned on. I was dressed in my pajamas when Darcy finally came home. I passed her in the hallway and caught her raised eyebrows and shit-

eating grin as we passed. “Have a nice night, Linds,” she said, giving me a wink. I threw her a dirty look as I opened the hall closet and got a pillow and blanket out. “Here you go,” I said, handing them to Taz, who now had his legs propped up on the coffee table. “Turning in?” he asked looking up from his laptop at me with those incredibly green eyes. “Yep,” I replied. “I’ll see you in the morning.” “Goodnight, Lindsey.” “Goodnight, Taz.”

CHAPTER 22 I was up and ready to leave for school by 8:30 a.m. Monday morning. Taz didn’t appear to be very well rested. I noticed the trash can in the kitchen had an army of empty beer bottles resting at the top. His five o’clock shadow had reached midnight, and his hair was sleep-tousled, spiking out all over the place. He grumbled something to me about needing coffee as he rambled down the hall towards the bathroom. I put some coffee on and by the time he came back out looking a bit better, I had a steaming cup waiting for him. He

sat at the breakfast bar, taking his time sipping his coffee. “I take it you girls don’t do breakfast,” he commented, raking his hand through his hair. “I usually get something in the cafeteria before my first class,” I replied, putting my books in my backpack. Darcy came into the living room ready to go. “Hey Taz,” she greeted sounding unusually chipper. “Did you sleep well?” He lifted an eyebrow, his coffee mug up to his lips and nodded. “Yeah, fine.” “Well, I’m off, Lindsey. I’ll see you

both this evening, I guess.” “See you, Darce.” “So Taz, what’s going on with your classes since you’re stuck here for a few days?” “Luckily my courses this term are online so it’s not a problem. You ready?” “Yep,” I replied, hoisting my backpack over my shoulders. Taz drove me to the campus in his truck. He seemed to be aware of everything around him. I was kind of fascinated that I hadn’t noticed before his synchronized glances in the side and rearview mirror. I wondered if that was some sort of built-in behavior that was now second

nature to him being in the bureau. Slate was the same way. “So, are we being tailed?” I joked. He looked over at me, his sunglasses preventing me from seeing his sexy green eyes or reading his expression for that matter. “Make jokes if you want, Lindsey, but it damn sure wouldn’t hurt you to develop some behavioral instincts. You aren’t always going to have your worrywart step-father around.” “What exactly is that supposed to mean, Taz?” “What it means, baby girl, is that no matter how you are related to Slate, I wouldn’t be here unless he thought I

needed to be. Slate doesn’t operate on emotions. He operates on instinct and Intel. Something is telling him things are not right here and there is more to the story that likely involves previous Intel that he has received.” Now Taz was just plain frightening me. What did he know? “Do you know something that you’re not telling me, Taz?” “There are plenty of things that I don’t tell you Lindsey, some of them are personal; some are privileged which I am not at liberty to divulge.” “Well, how about we start with the personal stuff then since you have no such restriction preventing you to share.” “Okay, for starters how well do you

know this Kyzer dude?” “I know Kyzer from school. We were in some classes together last semester. He’s always been friendly to me. We chat in classes; we were in a study group together and had lunch a few times before my car was towed away. Being the nice and caring person that he is, he chauffeured me around for that last week of school before winter break.” “Okay and how did he know you needed rides to and from school?” “He saw me get out of a cab on campus the morning after my car was towed. Darcy and Jill didn’t have classes that early, so I took a cab. He asked me if my car had broken down,

and I simply told him it was out of commission for several days. He made the offer, I accepted.” “Okay, and just like that you have total trust in him and basically are acting like you’re ready to serve your pussy up to him on a silver platter.” “Don’t be crude, Taz.” He gave a genuine laugh shaking his head. “Don’t be crude? Jesus Christ, Lindsey, dude’s toes are going to curl when he hears how crudely you talk when you’re getting your nut.” He continued laughing and it royally pissed me off. “That stuff is private, Taz. We shouldn’t even be discussing it. It has no

bearing on whatever point you are trying to make with me at the moment.” “Okay, Ms. Prim and Proper, you want a point? I’m going to give you one. First off, Kyzer started being a more integral part of your social circle the day after your car was broken into. Secondly, his interest in you has ramped up fairly quickly since that time for someone who isn’t getting pussy, unless of course that has changed.” He was looking over at me know expecting me to confirm or deny. “Jesus Christ, Taz, I saw him for the first time since the holidays just yesterday. What the hell? Did you think we were humping in his car before he

walked me up to my door?” My eyes were bugging out at him again. I was that pissed by his assumption that somehow our little training sessions had rendered me a skank. “Keep your eyes in their sockets,” he remarked. “I’m simply pointing out the facts. Let’s not forget how generous he was in offering up his daddy’s private jet in order to get your grandmother up to you on Christmas Eve." I crossed my arms, giving him the benefit of no response. He continued on as if not noticing my distaste for where he was taking this. "Let’s talk about the roses being delivered yesterday. Whoever sent those

or commissioned them to be dropped off, knew you would be coming back to your apartment that day. They were fresh. They were delivered just two hours before you got to the apartment.” “How did you know that?” “It’s my job to know these things, Lindsey. It’s what I do.” “So, what do you know that you are at liberty to share?” “I checked with your doorman. He had to sign for them and record the time. It was a private courier that delivered them. The courier service said that a cab dropped them off to their depot to be delivered. Of course, the cab driver that had the drop didn’t bother to call it into

dispatch so there is no way of knowing who the driver even was. The courier service described the driver as medium height, medium weight, white or darkskinned male between 35 and 45 years of age. They weren’t even sure of the name of the cab company. The car had one of those magnetic signs on it which anyone can make.” I was amazed. I couldn’t believe how much Taz had learned in such a short amount of time. Part of me still suspected that he was making more of the situation with Kyzer for reasons of his own that had nothing to do with the investigation. “So, I guess I need to know what your point is as far as Kyzer is

concerned, Taz. I am dating him you know.” “My advice is to take things very slowly with him. I would certainly advise you not to put yourself in a position where you are alone with him. Avoid getting intimate with him. It is quite possible that he is not what he seems to be. This is simply based on my experience and instincts. I have nothing concrete right now, but you can bet your sweet ass that I’m looking.” “Hmmph,” I said, turning my head away from him and looking out the window. “What is that supposed to mean?” he questioned tersely.

“Are you sure you aren’t just a tad biased where Kyzer is concerned?” “What reason would I have to be biased?” “I’m not as naïve as you would like to think, Taz. I know all about the male ego and their territorial nature. Is it just possible you are perhaps feeling that someone is interested in the ‘territory’ you so expertly marked?” I threw in a smile and a slight batting of my eyes at him when I said it. His face turned to stone. On the other hand. . . “Grow up, Lindsey, and get over yourself. You and I kicked it a few times, so what? I fuck a lot of chicks and

don’t go all ‘territorial’ on them. This isn’t some game we’re playing like fucking sophomores in high school. You asked for my point of view and I gave it. I can’t control what you say or do with this guy. I would recommend you focus more on what type of information he attempts to extract from you. That will quickly show his true motives.” I was embarrassed that he had called me out like some starry-eyed teenager. Everything he said sounded logical to me except for the fact that I didn’t see Kyzer as being a villain in any of this. I did think that Taz was a bit out of sorts that we wouldn’t be sleeping together anymore. I knew about the male ego. At this point, the fact that I was

working on developing a relationship with Kyzer would ultimately lead to it being a sexual one. I felt that Taz was struggling with that, not because he was emotionally invested, but because it was a matter of male dominance. I had learned all about it in my Psych classes. We had reached the building where my first class was scheduled. I marveled that Taz had known exactly where it was located without me giving direction or him having been here before. Then I remembered that Taz had done his homework as far as my schedule and the location of my classes. He was taking this seriously and I needed to respect

that. “Thanks for the lift, Taz. I will heed your advice regarding Kyzer and anyone else for that matter. I apologize for doubting your motives.” I turned and opened the passenger side door to exit his truck. Just as I had jumped down to the pavement from his truck, Taz informed me he would see me between classes. “Okay, I’ll see you then in about ninety minutes.” “Lindsey,” he said, as I started to shut the door of his truck. I looked over at him. “Aren’t you going to give me a kiss goodbye?” he asked, tapping the side of his cheek with a finger. I shook my head in exasperation and

shut the door, turning to walk up towards the entrance to the building. I heard his sexy laughter as he pulled away.

CHAPTER 23 (Taz) I watched Lindsey walk into the building where her first class was scheduled. I enjoyed watching her perky little cupcake ass wiggle just a tad in those tight jeans she was wearing. My mind pictured what that ass looked like naked. Shit! It was perfect and why the hell was I fucking torturing myself with it? I pulled away and cruised through the lot looking for the Benz that Kyzer Stanfield drove. I found it in the lot across from Simmons Hall. Black sedan,

Florida license plate 787 Tango, Bravo, Delta. Yeah. T.B.D. as in “To Be Determined.” I parked the truck down from the lot, shutting it off. I slipped from my truck, reaching in the back seat and I opened my laptop, going into the Intel files that had been gathered so far. Kyzer Michael Stanfield, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 10, 1992 to Thomas and Lila Stanfield. He was their only child, born to Lila when she was 42 years old. Lila died as a result of a cerebral hemorrhage on October 6, 1996. The death certificate listed the cause as natural resulting from acute hypertension. She stroked out at the age

of 46. Thomas Stanfield, born on February 7, 1945, in New York City. Graduated magna cum laude from Columbia University in 1967. He married the younger Lila Mae Evans in June of 1980, after already starting Stanfield Industries, currently known as The Stanfield Group. The Stanfield Group is a privately owned business having three segments of operation: Stanfield Industries, the flagship entity located in Philadelphia, is a manufacturing facility specializing in plastic injection molded parts of all sizes and configurations serving the transportation industry.

Stanfield Trading Company located in Miami, Florida, imports chemicals, powdered coatings, raw materials, machine tools and other miscellaneous industrial products. The newest addition to the Stanfield portfolio is Stanfield Research, located in Atlanta, Georgia. That business segment was established by Thomas Stanfield in early 2010. It’s listed as a research and development facility for organic dietary supplements, boasting their own brand name of “Orga-Blend.” At sixty-eight years of age, Thomas Stanfield is no longer physically able to run the operations of the group. His current wife, Sue Ellen Beasley-

Stanfield, is acting CEO of the group. Both Mr. and Mrs. Stanfield currently reside in Naples, Florida. None of the family had any criminal records. In fact, Kyzer was what we referred to as being squeaky clean, meaning our background check couldn’t cough up so much as a parking ticket. That kind of shit typically made me suspicious. The stepmother was clean as well. Sue Ellen Beasley was thirty-five years old. She went to work for the Stanfield Group in 2008, eventually becoming old man Stanfield’s executive assistant. The two of them tied the knot on New Year’s Day in 2009. There was nothing in particular that

stood out in any of the information or bios, yet instinctually something seemed not quite right. Younger women marry older, wealthy men all of the time. There was certainly nothing there that connected Jack Dennison with the Stanfield’s. I still planned to keep a close watch o n Kyzer. His deepening interest in Lindsey and desire to take care of her and see to her safety didn’t sit well with me for a couple of reasons. It wasn’t simply my knowing that he wanted in her panties; though the thought of him being inside of her seriously made me want to shoot his preppy dick off. It was more than that.

It seemed too coincidental with the timing of events. Why in the hell was he attending the University of Virginia, anyway? Hell, his old man was a graduate of Columbia. They certainly had the money to send him to a university of that caliber. It wasn’t close to home either. I pulled up my cell phone and called Kim back at the division. “Hey, sweet thing,” I crooned to her when she answered. “What do you want from me now, Taz?” she asked, trying to sound irritated. I knew she wasn’t. She liked the way I flirted with her. “I just need one little thing, darlin.”

“Which is?’ “I need the transcripts for Kyzer M. Stanfield, DOB: 1-10-92 from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.” “Uh huh,” she said. “Who signed the warrant?” “Come on baby, don’t be like that. If I had a warrant I wouldn’t be on the phone listening to your sweet voice, now would I?” “Taz, you’re going to get me fired.” “No one is going to catch you, baby, because you are the best. You’ll be in and out of their mainframe before anyone is the wiser.” “Ohhh,” she said, totally frustrated

with me. “I’ll have it to you in five, but I swear to God Taz, this is the last flippin’ time, okay?” “You are my girl, Kim.” I could feel her smile from the other end. As much as she bitched about my hacking requests, she had yet to turn me down. “Yeah, Taz; I feel the love.” True to her word, five minutes later I was pulling up the transcripts she had hijacked for me. Bingo! Kyzer Stanfield had enrolled just last fall at the University of Virginia. He hadn’t even declared a major. He had previously attended Hodges University in Naples, Florida. He had been enrolled in the B.S. degree

program for Business Administration. How fucking coincidental was this? He had enrolled in U of V starting the same semester as Lindsey. I wondered if Lindsey was aware he was a transfer student. The courses he was taking presently made no sense. There were the two classes he had with Lindsey, the rest were all science classes: Organic Chemistry, Botanical Science, Agricultural Science. What the fuck was with this Poindexter? My thoughts were interrupted when I got a text from the lab in Quantico. They had concluded the forensic analysis on the black roses. The report would be

forwarded to me electronically before the end of the day. I glanced at my watch. I had a few minutes before Lindsey would be getting out of her first class. I reached into my glove compartment and pulled out the government-issued universal remote. I pointed it towards Kyzer’s Benz and hit the “unlock” button. Bingo! I got out of my truck, and opened the back door, pulling the GPS Fleet Tracker device and the wiring harness out of the box. The other one was going on Lindsey’s car. Within five minutes, Kyzer’s Benz was officially on my radar, activated for the U.S. and Canada. These new systems were superior to any of the ping-based

products. Having it hardwired to the battery allowed for no interruption of tracking. The location tracking automatically updated every ten seconds real time. It was compatible with my smart phone and lap-top. Lindsey’s class was over by this time so I swung my truck back over to that side of the campus and waited to take her to the next class. This was the Physics II class she had with Kyzer. I felt a level of comfort knowing that I could track his movements in his vehicle. I was hoping that things would come to light soon.

CHAPTER 24 Going through an entire day of having Taz there every time I turned around was disarming. It wasn’t that I didn’t appreciate the fact that he was following orders in an effort to keep me safe. I knew that both he and Slate were attempting to find out who or what was behind my car being broken into along with the ominous roses I received. It just felt like I was under a microscope. Keeping an eye out was one thing; what Taz was doing was clearly something else.

After Kyzer and I had lunch in the student union, Taz’s truck was once again waiting outside so that he could run me to the other side of the campus for my English Composition class. This was one of the classes that Kyzer and I had together. Taz knew that. I told Kyzer to follow me out to the truck and we would ride over together. I knew Kyzer wasn’t that comfortable around Taz, but it would have been rude of me not to offer. Kyzer’s car was in the lot clear over on the other side of the campus. As soon as I piled into the front seat of Taz’s truck, I mentioned that Kyzer was in the same class and was riding

over with us. Taz instructed me to shut the door of the truck. I motioned for Kyzer to get into the back seat of the dual cab at the very same second Taz hit the power locks and pulled out leaving Kyzer standing there looking dumbfounded in the middle of the road. “What the hell? Taz, that was rude!” Taz started chuckling, looking back at Kyzer in his rear-view mirror. “There he stands, looking real dumb,” he laughed. “Now who the hell is acting sophomoric?” I lashed out at him. I watched as Taz's expression morphed into pure pissed. “You didn’t listen to a fucking word

I said to you this morning, did you?” He was fuming mad. What was I supposed to do? “I did listen to what you said. You told me to pay attention to the types of information he tried to get from me, right? Well guess what? He hasn’t tried to get any information from me. We talked briefly after class and for about thirty minutes at lunch. Shall I give you a rundown of the conversation, Agent Matthews?” Taz was glaring at me now. “Let’s see. We discussed our writing assignment, and what topics we planned to use for our argumentative essays due next week. We talked about one of his

science projects he has been working on and how much time it is -” “Hold it there,” he interrupted. “What is his science project subject?” “Are you serious, Taz?” “Yes, I am. Do you remember?” To be honest I found science topics to be extremely boring. Thirty seconds into a discussion and my eyes were glazing over. At the moment, I was racking my brain trying to recall what Kyzer had told me. “See there,” he practically yelled, causing me to jump. “I tell you that I don’t trust this dude’s motives and most people would be a little bit on their game which means, Lindsey, they would be paying attention to things that are said

in case it is relevant. Not you, though. Hell no! You were probably nodding that pretty little head of yours up and down like you were listening all the while trying to figure out when you could squeeze in your next appointment for a bikini wax.” Now it was my turn to be livid. How dare he say those kinds of things to me? Was everything that came out of Kyzer’s mouth supposed to be tied to me or my father or whatever the hell it was Taz thought he was a part of? “His science project involves ketone oxygen atoms and the bio physiological conversion that occurs when an organic element undergoes de-potentiation. Are

you satisfied?” I turned away from him and stared out the window of his truck still fuming, my arms crossed tightly in front of me. We pulled up to Ward Hall and I pulled on the handle of the door realizing I needed to release the power lock. I fumbled around for it. He pressed it from his side and I got the door open. I felt Taz’s hand on my arm as I started scooting out of the truck. I turned immediately to face him. “Lindsey,” he said, “I’m sorry I said that just now.” “Fuck you, Taz.” I got out of the truck, slamming the door behind me and hurried up the walkway towards the building.

This was not going to work out. I couldn’t live this way. If something was going to happen I just wished that it would happen already. By the time classes were over for the day, I was more than ready to get back to the apartment and study quietly in my room. I apologized to Kyzer for Taz’s rude behavior. He had told me it wasn’t necessary. He was curious as to why Taz didn’t like him. “It’s not that he doesn’t like you,” I had lied, “he just takes his assignment very seriously. He was told to look after me so that is what he is doing.” “Doesn’t he understand that you and

I are friends, Lindsey?” “I’ve explained that to him, Kyzer,” I replied with a shrug. “It’s as if he doesn’t trust me with you or something. I mean he obviously feels that you are in danger. Does he think I pose a threat to you in some way?” The question had caught me totally off guard. Was Kyzer that perceptive or was it something else? “Of course not, Kyzer; don’t be silly.” I managed a weak smile, hoping that would be the end of it. It wasn’t. “Perhaps he is jealous of me spending time with you.” I couldn’t control the blush that appeared on my face.

“That’s it, isn’t it Lindsey? Taz is interested in you as something more than simply someone he is supposed to be protecting.” “Kyzer,” I said, sincerely wanting to be as honest with him as possible, “Taz is my stepfather’s best friend. My stepfather is his superior, so you understand that I’ve known Taz for a while. I can honestly tell you that he has never once tried to cultivate any type of romantic relationship with me. For goodness sakes, he’s like nine or ten years older than me. So, will you please not jump to conclusions like that?” “I’m sorry, Lindsey, but I guess before our relationship goes any further I

would just like to know where I stand with you.” “Nothing has changed. We’re getting to know each other, right? I enjoy spending time with you.” “I enjoy spending time with you, as well, Lindsey. I’m sorry that I jumped to that crazy conclusion. I guess having some agent around makes me a bit uncomfortable. I feel like I’m under some microscope.” “Trust me, Kyzer, I feel the same way.” Taz and I rode back to my apartment in total silence. I went immediately to my room, tossing the backpack full of books onto my bed. Darcy had been home and left again.

I could tell when I poked my head into her bedroom and saw the pile of books on the floor, along with the clothes she had left in this morning right beside them. She had to have skipped a class to beat me home by that much. I smiled and shook my head. I went to the kitchen to check the magnet on the fridge where we always left notes for one another. She had left one for me. Lindsey, Jill got back. We went to hit some sports bars. She needs cheering up. Gabe is joining us. You and Taz come on out. We are at Piccadilly’s. Hit us

up. Yeah, right, I thought, rolling my eyes. M r . G-man acts like he doesn’t know how to have fun anymore now that he’s on assignment watching my ass. I turned around to head out and there he was. I jumped in surprise. “I’m sorry, baby girl,” he said, softly. His eyes looked almost sad. His hand reached up and brushed my hair back from my forehead. His fingers gently cupped my chin, tilting my face up to look at him. Our eyes searched one another’s

faces, trying to make sense of whatever this feeling was between us. He lowered his mouth to mine and immediately my arms wrapped around his neck, feeling like that is where they belonged and always would. His mouth was gentle on mine; his lips, spreading butterfly kisses softly, his tongue gently tracing my bottom lip. I parted my lips and we kissed deeply now, his arms wrapped around my lower back, pulling my ass in so that I could feel the hardness that was his. All rational thoughts, any residual anger or hurt I had felt earlier was gone. It had fled as soon as he touched me, touched what was his and we both knew it, though neither one of us would ever

admit it. My hands massaged his ass, feeling the flexing of his muscles as his groin pressed up against me. “Mmm,” I moaned against his lips, “I want you inside of me, Taz.” He lifted me as if I was weightless, and carried me to my room, kicking the door shut behind us. We tore our clothes off like starving animals, hungry for each other. I saw him toss a condom packet taken from the pocket of his jeans onto my nightstand. I couldn’t suppress a smile as I discarded the last of the clothes from my body. “Pretty sure of yourself, aren’t you,

Agent Matthews?” He looked over at me, his eyes smoldering as he gazed at my nakedness. “I’ve never been as unsure of myself as I am around you,” he replied, coming to stand before me. “What are we doing, Lindsey?” “Exactly what you and me were meant to do, Taz.” He gently pushed me down on the bed so that I was on my back. He was on his knees at my ankles and spread my legs apart with his hands. He gripped the underside of each leg, raising them so that my ankles were resting on his shoulders. His mouth immediately found my core, pressing warm, wet kisses all over my already

moist sex. I felt his tongue exploring as his fingers spread the folds as if they were the petals of a flower blossoming just for him and no one else. Who could ever make me feel as good as Taz? I couldn’t imagine anyone being able to surpass the pleasure that he administered to me. He moaned my name as his tongue plunged deeply inside of me, swirling in and out. His fingers followed close behind as I writhed with the mounting buildup of release I desperately needed. “Your pussy tastes so sweet, baby girl,” he whispered, “and it is mine, no one else’s.” I loved the way he talked to me.

He could sense the build-up of my release. He rose up and grabbed the condom packet, tearing it open in one quick movement. His cock was rock solid and my anticipation of being filled with him once again was driving me to whimper his name over and over. “I know, baby girl, it’s time.” His knee brushed my thigh apart wider as I watched his hand guide his very engorged shaft into me. I loved watching Taz handle his cock. There was something extremely erotic about it. He lowered himself down and entered me slowly, allowing me to revel in the sensation of him slowly bringing

me to fullness. I moaned with pleasure, my legs instinctively wrapping around him, my toes digging into his muscular ass. “Does that feel good, Lindsey?” he asked softly, as he pulled himself out and then plunged back in slowly and methodically. “God, yes,” I said, my hands, rubbing his chest, pinching his nipples as the waves of pleasure kept coming. “You know Kyzer could never fuck you like this, don’t you?” I nodded, moaning again as he sped up the tempo just a notch. “I want you to say it for me, baby.” “Kyzer could never fuck me the way that you do, Taz.”

“Good girl,” he crooned, rocking in and out of me. “Now, I want you to promise me that Kyzer will never touch your pussy. Can you do that?” “Yes, Taz. I promise you.” He immediately stopped moving within me. I looked at him, eyes wide. His eyes were piercing. I hadn’t responded the way he wanted. I felt my pussy squeeze him tightly. I was pumping into him, wanting his rhythm to start back up. “Taz, I promise you that Kyzer will not touch me there, ever.” He immediately started flexing

himself in and out of me. “That’s much better, baby girl. I don’t want him touching you anywhere, is that understood?” “Yes, Taz, I understand that perfectly.” He began thrusting harder and faster. I met him thrust for thrust, feeling him deeply inside, the head of his cock now rubbing directly against my sweet spot. “Oh, God,” I whimpered. “Oh, my God, Taz, I love how you fuck me. I love how you make me come.” He groaned and I felt throbbing deep inside of me which sent me over into a swirl of pleasurable release, wave after wave as I came and came again. I moaned as I felt my liquid release spill

out as if it had been years instead of weeks. He moaned loudly, telling me how sweet my cunt felt to his cock. His mouth found mine, and we kissed roughly as our climaxes descended upon us making us one.

CHAPTER 25 I stretched languidly the following morning, arching my back like a cat to get the kinks out. I looked over at my bedside clock. It was only 6:30 a.m. My alarm wasn’t going to go off for another thirty minutes. Hmm, plenty of time I thought as I glanced over at Taz sleeping next to me, his arm thrown across my breasts possessively. I rubbed against him until he stirred. He opened his eyes sleepily and yawned. “Damn, I need a mint Lindsey for what I have in mind.”

I giggled, lifting his arm up off of me and scooted over to my nightstand. I opened the drawer and rooted through it until I found a partial role of butterscotch lifesavers, my favorite. “Will this do?” I asked, smiling. “Umm hmm,” he replied, taking one and popping it in his mouth. “Or we could just go and brush our teeth and gargle.” “Takes too much time,” he said, kissing me sweetly. I popped a lifesaver into my mouth and dove under the covers. For the next ten minutes, Taz got to see how a blow job felt butterscotch-style. “My dick is going to be so sticky I

probably won’t be able to slide a condom on it.” This brought a fit of giggles from me and then it suddenly dawned on me: we didn’t have any more condoms. We had used two more last night until the wee hours. I stopped my oral ministrations and popped my head out from under the covers. “What?” he asked. “Condoms?” “Oh shit, that’s right. Well, we’ll just do each other orally,” he replied, “until I can stock up on more.” “I want to feel you inside of me,” I persisted. “Lindsey,” he said in a very cautious and warning tone, “let’s not play with

fire.” “Taz, please? We fucked so much last night your sperm count is probably below zero. Besides that, my period is due in like three days, so it isn’t even my fertile period.” I could tell he wasn’t totally comfortable with the thought of riding bareback. I could see him mentally weighing the pros and cons. Knowing Taz; he was probably running a statistical analysis through his brain. “How can I refuse you, baby girl?” he finally crooned, kissing me. I can’t describe how fantastic it was making love with Taz and not having that thin layer of sheepskin between us.

It mattered not that his dick was not ribbed, nor glowed in the dark, or was flavored, spiked with a French tickler or anything else, it was his skin against my skin, and it was beautiful. We both came with a vengeance unlike all others. I know we were loud. At some point, I think Darcy was pounding against the wall of our adjoining rooms as if to say, “Shut the fuck up.” We didn’t care. It was all about us and our coupling, and the feel of our skin meeting skin, and how intimate and sexy it felt. I had never heard Taz moan as loudly as he did when he came this time.

It was totally sexy and satisfying to me knowing that he loved the way that I felt. Afterwards, coated with a thin film of perspiration, we cuddled next to each other. Taz kept kissing the top of my head, his fingers, softly massaging my breasts that were tender as they always got right before my period. When my alarm sounded five minutes later, we scurried off and showered together, washing each other in a very intimate way. Something had changed between Taz and me in just twelve short hours. I was afraid to trust it. I felt so good and secure at this very moment. I didn’t want to part with it. We were both dressing in my room

when he checked his iPhone. “Shit,” he mumbled. “I should have checked this last night. I have some reports to review today, Lindsey. Will you be okay if I drop you at school and then pick you up when you’re finished this afternoon?” “Of course, Taz, I actually prefer it that way. I’m in no danger at school with a zillion people around.” “I meant what I said about Kyzer.” I blushed, turning to him and hugging him. “Taz, I made a promise to you last night and I meant it.” “No, sweetheart, I’m talking about you being extremely careful about what

you say to him, and paying extra attention to what he says to you, okay.” My cheeks flushed and my bubble burst. Egg on my face. “Oh, that,” I snapped. “Of course, Taz.” I went to leave the bedroom and I was immediately hauled back by his strong arms. I was up against his chest, my palms flat against it. “I meant what I said and what you promised about the other, baby girl. I just trust you enough that I didn’t feel like I needed to remind you of that.” He lowered his head, his lips kissing mine. Great save, Matthews! Taz dropped me off at my first class,

telling me he would be back to pick me up when my last class was finished. He said he had reports to read and would be working out of the apartment. He told me to call if anything seemed strange or out of the ordinary to me. I agreed and told him I would see him later this afternoon. I opened the door to the truck to step down and found myself immediately hauled back into his embrace. He planted a major lip lock on me causing me to blush (and smile). “Lindsey,” he said his eyes very serious, “please be careful and watch what you say, okay?” I nodded, wondering why he was

being so serious at the moment. “And listen carefully to what is said to you. Hone your sense of recall of conversations, no matter how innocuous it may seem. I will want to know.” I nodded again, knowing he meant Kyzer, of course. I jumped down from his truck and headed towards the building. Taz drove off. I had only walked a few steps when I immediately spotted Kyzer. By the look on his face, I knew he had been watching my interaction with Taz. He turned from me, a look of total disdain marring his otherwise good looks. “Kyzer, wait,” I called after him,

speeding up my pace to catch up. “I need to explain.” “Explain what, Lindsey?” he asked, sounding very disappointed and sad. He was still walking. “Kyzer, please stop for a minute, I want to explain.” He halted right then and there and turned to look at me. I felt badly for the look of hurt I saw on his face, knowing that I was responsible for it. “Explain why you lied to me yesterday about his feelings for you and your apparent feelings for him?” “I know that’s how it looks, but I didn’t lie. A lot happened last night that even I don’t understand myself, Kyzer.

I’m new at this. I’ve not had any serious relationships before. I wanted you to be someone I could explore that with.” “Evidently, I’m not the person you want anymore.” “Kyzer, I’m sorry. I really am.” I didn’t know what more I could say. I couldn’t tell him that Taz and I had something serious going, because I wasn’t sure that we did. All I was sure of at the moment was that the chemistry between Taz and me was undisputable. It was new territory for me sexually, and for Taz, it was undeniably new territory for him emotionally. I knew that I was emotionally attached to Taz in a very guarded way.

My instincts told me that Taz was fighting the attachment because it was foreign to him until now. He was apprehensive at best. “Lindsey, there is no need to apologize. You feel what you feel. I can’t fault you for that. If things change between you and whatever-he-is to you, I would always welcome another chance.” “Oh, Kyzer,” I replied, putting my hand on his shoulder. “I’m not sure where any of this is going, but I hope you and I are still friends.” “Absolutely,” he said with a faint smile. “You can never have too many friends. You’ve come to be a very

important one to me. I’m grateful for that.” “Do you want to meet for lunch today?” I asked. “Of course, Lindsey.” We both parted ways, going to our individual classes. I thought about how well Kyzer had ultimately reacted once he knew that I hadn’t lied to him yesterday. I bumped into Darcy on the way to my first class. I suspected she had gone out of her way to run into me since her first class was in a different building. “Well, well,” she said, getting a shiteating grin going. “I’m surprised to see you made it to school today. No, strike that, I’m surprised to see that you’re

even able to walk today after the workout you had going all night long.” She started giggling as I looked at her trying to maintain a serious demeanor, but not managing to do so. “Whatever, Darcy,” I said with a smile. “It’s not as if both you and Jill haven’t kept me awake all night on many occasions. I guess it was finally my turn, right?” “Yeah, I would say it is definitely about time. You two were rocking it, that’s for damn sure. I didn’t know you even knew those kinds of words, Linds.” She managed to get a blush out of me on that one. “So what are you going to do about

Kyzer?” “He already knows,” I replied. “He saw Taz pull me back for a kiss this morning in the truck.” “No shit? Well a picture is worth a thousand words, so I guess he got the message.” “We talked about it. He said something to me just yesterday about Taz having feelings for me.” “Yeah, it’s kind of obvious,” she said, shaking her head. “Not to me,” I replied. “Oh, come on, Lindsey. Even with your naiveté, you have to see the writing on the wall. Dude has done everything but piss around the perimeter of our apartment to mark his territory.”

I couldn’t suppress a smile at the visual I got from her comment. Still, she didn’t see the look in Taz’s eyes when he asked me what we were doing last night. “You didn’t hear him going off that first night he arrived when you were out with Kyzer.” “Darcy, he was pissed because I left the apartment that was what all that was about.” “Not true,” she replied. “He was fine when I told him you went out and asked that I stay and wait for the agent that was coming. It was a little later, after that second agent left with the box of roses that he inquired

about the specifics of where you had gone. So, I told him. That was when dude came unhinged.” “Well, I guess time will tell. He’s kind of complicated. By the way, have you heard from Darin?” “Just every day about four or five times; we’re getting together this weekend. I’m driving home.” “That’s fantastic,” I replied. “And how is Jill?” “She’s recovered pretty much. By the way, she stayed with Gabe last night. She told me to tell you Taz could crash in her room for the next couple of nights. I guess that won’t be necessary though.” I shook my head at Darcy. “Got to get to class, Darce. I’ll see

you later at home, okay?” “I’ll be there,” she called after me. “I’m hoping to get some sleep tonight.”

CHAPTER 26 (Taz) I stretched out on the sofa in the apartment with my laptop, downloading the forensic analysis report that had come in yesterday evening. I had been too distracted with ‘other things’ to review it. I generally made it a point to avoid those types of distractions when it came to my work. Who the hell was I kidding? Lindsey was not what I was used to in a woman, by any means. It was more than the physical part of it, though that part was superior to anything I had experienced before. It was also the emotional part

that had crept up on me with her. It was making me crazy. I was out of my element in this. Having her curled around me in bed was something foreign to me. I kept my life simple for a reason. The chicks that had come and gone before her were in my bed for one reason and one reason only: to fuck once or twice during their visit and then pack it up and go home. I didn’t host sleepovers. That was not my style, or least it hadn’t been up until now. Even when Lindsey was in my bed at home, I hadn’t wanted her to leave it. I had been curious to see what it would be like to have her wake up right beside

me. It hadn’t happened there, but it had happened here and I liked it. I liked it a lot. I didn’t know what the hell I was doing with her, but I sure as hell knew that Slate wouldn’t dig it. If my best friend would have an issue with it, I didn’t want to think how Sammie would feel about it. That was probably the only reason Slate would have an issue. He knew that Sammie wanted a different type of guy for Lindsey. As much as Sammie loved Slate, and it was totally obvious that she adored him, I knew she was uncomfortable with his work, and rightfully so. Slate was the best of the best in his

line of work at the bureau. He adored Sammie right back, and at times, I had seen him lose his edge for a minute because of concern for her or the mere distraction. That had sealed the deal for me. If I hadn’t been absolutely certain before, I was positive now seeing those two and the commitment they had, to know I was doing the right thing by not getting emotionally involved with a chick. Then Lindsey came along and it appeared as if she was tearing all of my resolve and best laid plans to shreds. It wasn’t even that she had set out to do it. There wasn’t a deceptive or calculating bone in that beautiful body.

She had always been upfront and brutally honest about herself with me. I had to shake those thoughts of her from my mind. I was semi-hard just thinking about her. I needed to focus on this technical shit in front of me, and put my ‘Poindexter’ hat on to interpret the analysis and try to draw a conclusion. I scanned through the several page report which listed the subject matter being analyzed, what types of instrumentation was being used for testing, how it was calibrated, the testing media, yada, yada, yada. I hated all of the preliminary crap that was required to be included for forensic purposes. Okay, here we go. In layman’s terms, the roses were

dissected and various parts of the stems and petals were prepped for slides to be microscopically examined. The examination revealed that the roses were actually the Red Freedom variety, readily available from any florist. They had simply been dipped in a commercially available navy blue die to create the blackness. I figured that was something that could very easily have been accomplished by the rat bastard or the Poindexter that was hot after my girl. Fuck that shit, Taz. Get your head out of your ass and keeping reading for Chrissake! I continued to peruse down through

the report and something amid all of the technical jargon caught my attention. A residual powdered substance was taken from several of the rose stems, and sent for a high performance liquid chromatography analysis. The results of the testing revealed that the powdered substance was identified as cathine, a derivative of cathinone, a Schedule 1 amphetamine. Cathine is a less powerful stimulant as a result of de-potentiation and the bio physiological conversion of the ketonic atoms through oxidation. Fuck! Didn’t Lindsey say that Poindexter was doing some science project on this very same topic? I launched myself off the sofa

immediately, shrugging my jacket on and grabbing my keys to head out. I was going to pull her ass out of whatever class she was in and bring her home. My cell phone chimed. It was Slate. Shit! “Slate,” I answered, “I was just on my way out.” “Did you review the forensic lab report, Taz?” “As a matter of fact, I just finished.” “Does any of that shit make sense to you?” I needed to tell him everything I knew. He wasn’t going to like the fact that I had allowed Lindsey to go off with a potential suspect in this whole incident

with the roses. There was still no connection to Jack. So officially, if the line couldn’t be drawn connecting him, the FBI had no business in this case. “Yeah, I guess the bottom line is that someone is stepping on some amphetamine creating some type of designer drug that for reasons unknown, got sprinkled on the stems of those roses.” “Yeah, I gathered that. Though it appears the amount and strength of the powder was nowhere near a lethal level. "Even if someone had ingested every single rose stem, which is plain idiocy, it wouldn’t have caused much harm. It’s a message of some sort to someone. I’m

not even sure that message was for Lindsey.” I hadn’t considered that. “For whom, then?” “Perhaps Sammie, through Lindsey; maybe even Jack.” “So, you’re thinking Jack is back in the states, his whereabouts unknown to everyone?” “It’s possible. If he is, someone wants to find him other than us for reasons still unclear. They might have suspected that Lindsey was harboring him, or at the very least, knows how to get in touch with him.” “There is one other thing, Slate.” I filled him in on the portion of the

report that was nearly verbatim to what Kyzer Stanfield had told Lindsey was to be the content of his upcoming science project. “Shit Taz; that is too close for comfort. I think Lindsey needs to take a break from school until we figure out what this kid is about. He can’t know why, though. It has to sound plausible, so he isn’t spooked.” “Yeah, I know. Dude already knows I don’t like him.” “Why’s that?” Slate asked. Shit. “Probably the same reason as you, Slate. He triggers something in our instincts. He fucking transferred to U of V at the beginning of the term last fall,

the same time Lindsey enrolled. You should see his fucking college transcripts; all science classes, including one botanical something or other.” “How did you see his transcripts?” Uh oh. “It’s better you don’t know, Slate.” “Right.” I was anxious to change that particular subject so I brought up a valid concern. “You know Lindsey is going to pitch a fit about her taking a leave from school when the semester just started. How is that supposed to play out?” “You know protocol, Taz. You can’t tell her a thing about what we know or

what’s in that report. You tell her she’s needed at home for a while. Her mother is having some health issues.” “Fuck Slate, I’m not going to lie to her and get her all upset so that she makes a beeline home under false pretenses like that.” “It’s not a lie,” he replied. “I can’t get into it right now, Taz, and besides that, Lindsey needs to hear about the specifics from her mother and me. We will be making the trip home Friday. We should arrive sometime Friday evening. Can you follow Lindsey back so I don’t have to worry about that?” I could hear the concern and anguish in Slate’s voice. I wanted to find out what the hell was wrong with Sammie

and how serious it might be. He wasn’t in the mood for questions and I respected the fact that he felt Lindsey should hear it before anyone else. “Sure brother; don’t worry about a thing on this front. I will make sure she gets home safe and sound, okay?” “Thanks, Taz. I left the apartment and drove to the campus. I decided that I didn’t want to suddenly jerk Lindsey out of class in the middle of the day. I stayed out of sight and watched that she got to and from her classes without incident the rest of the day. I was parked in my truck at the usual place when she finished for the day.

I watched as she walked towards the truck, her eyes brightening when she saw me. “Hey Taz,” she greeted, climbing up in the truck beside me. “Hey baby girl,” I replied, feeling like a total piece of shit having to give her news that I knew would upset her and take that smile away. “Did everything go okay today?” “Pretty much,” she said, a slight frown appearing. “Kyzer saw us kiss this morning. He was a little upset about it but we talked and I’m pretty sure now that we’re still friends.” “Oh, really?” I asked, quirking an eyebrow as I gazed at her sweet face.

“Well, I mean, don’t worry Taz. It wasn’t like I told him that you and I were a couple or anything. I mean, I didn’t give him that impression at all. I don’t want you thinking that I am jumping to any conclusions about us or our involvement, if there even is one. I just….” “Lindsey,” I said, “stop stumbling all over yourself, okay? It’s fine. You and I will eventually figure it out together. I need to know if Kyzer said anything out of the ordinary to you.” “No,” she said. “I mean nothing different than usual. He said he knew you didn’t like him yesterday, but he thought it was because you were

interested in me. Today when he saw us, he accused me of lying to him about the situation.” “Uh huh, what did you say to that?” “I told him that I hadn’t lied to him; that I wasn’t sure where you and I were going with this. We agreed to remain friends.” “Okay,” I replied, giving her a smile. “I don’t mean to come off like I’m interrogating you, but I have to ask questions.” “It’s okay,” she replied with a laugh. “Between you and Slate, I think I’m kind of getting used to it.” We settled into momentary silence. “I have a ton of homework to get to when we get back to the apartment.”

“Lindsey, when we get back to the apartment, we need to talk, okay?” I smiled at her hoping to offer some signal of comfort. She looked over at me and for a moment I saw a look of alarm pass over her. She quickly replaced it with a weak smile. “Sure, Taz, no problem.” She turned and faced the window on her side, looking out at the passing scenery that she saw every day for the rest of the ride home. I wasn’t going to enjoy breaking the news to her one little bit.

CHAPTER 27 Something was wrong. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out. As inexperienced as I was with men and relationships, the dreaded words, “We need to talk” was never good. All of a sudden the lyrics to that song by ‘The Fray’ that I used to listen to over and over again, drifted into my mind. 'Step one you say we need to talk. He smiles politely back at you.' I looked out of the window of Taz’s truck and prepared myself for ‘the talk.’ 'You stare politely right on through. Some sort of window to your right. As he goes left and you stay right.'

I was positive it had something to do with the fact we seemed to be getting closer. Taz was not comfortable with it. I sensed that immediately. Perhaps he felt that I was pushing him into something that he was not ready for right now, at least not with me. I tried to replay everything in my mind from the time we sparked. For me, it was the night of the wedding reception when he took care of me. I had felt a spark right then and there. I wasn’t sure if the spark was purely physical or purely emotional, perhaps a little bit of both. I was content with just enjoying the spark for whatever it was. I certainly

was not well versed in the ways of seduction, nor had I pretended to be. The events that transpired after that were driven by Taz, not me. At least I could take comfort in knowing that I had not been the aggressor, trying to coax him into some web of sex and emotional intrigue. I couldn’t have pulled that off if I had tried. I was clueless about men. Whatever it was he was going to tell me, I would accept as a mature person. After all, I was not emotionally invested at this juncture. That wasn’t true and I knew it. He tugged at my heart strings no matter how hard I wanted to deny it. Even so, I would roll with it with grace

and dignity no matter what. I knew that he was glancing over at me if not directly, then in his peripheral vision. Oh my. I needed to keep my composure and think of the positive side of it. I would eventually recover and go on with life as it had been before I met Taz. I could focus more on my studies without the distraction of this totally hot, sexy creature, who could make my toes curl with his touch. Stop it, Lindsey, I scolded myself mentally. I needed to grow up and what better life lesson could assist in that than my first real heartbreak. I couldn’t

actually even call it that. I wasn’t in love with Taz. Perhaps this would be a blessing in disguise. At least Darcy would be getting a good night’s rest tonight. I sighed audibly. “Are you alright, Lindsey?” “I’m fine.” “You’re awfully quiet over there.” 'Let him know that you know best; ‘cause after all you do know best. Try to slip past his defense, without out granting innocence.' I decided that The Fray knew what they were talking about in that song; the one that used to be one of my favorites. “Look, Taz,” I said, releasing another long sigh. “If you think that we’ve let things go too far, we really

don’t need to have a major discussion about it. I think we are both on the same page here. Things between you and I are too complicated and convoluted. I would simply prefer to not belabor the inevitable with some long, drawn out discussion.” “I see,” he said, glancing over at me. “So, you think we’re on the same page then?” “Yes, I do.” “Well, baby girl, I’m here to tell you that you don’t even have the correct book opened.” I turned to look at him, really look at him. His face was stone cold serious. “What do you mean?”

“I mean that the talk I mentioned us having is not about you and me, okay?” I nodded, still watching him. “It’s something else altogether, but I want to have it with you sitting on my lap, alright?” “It’s bad news, isn’t it?” “Sweetheart, please, we’re almost there so just chill for a few minutes, okay? Everything is going to be fine.” I nodded, too afraid to speak because I knew my voice would sound all shaky and frightened. It seemed an eternity before I was sliding the key into the lock of the apartment. I tossed my bag of books on the

table. Taz helped me off with my jacket and then shrugged his off, tossing them both on the back of the chair. “Why don’t you sit down on the sofa and I’ll get us each a glass of wine, okay?” “Sure, Taz.” I took a seat on the couch, pulling one of the throw pillows up against my chest for comfort, tucking my legs underneath me. He returned in a moment, handing me a glass of wine. I sipped it as he took a seat next to me and took a sip of his. “Lindsey,” he began, “I talked to Slate today. He called to check in on things here. He’s still in Indianapolis.” I nodded, taking another large sip of

wine. “Look,” he continued, “I don’t know the details because he wanted your mom and him to be the ones to tell you first, but he asked that you arrange to take a leave from college and return to Falls Church.” “Why?” “He said your mom is going to need some taking care of; she’s not feeling well.” “Where is she?” I was starting to freak out. Taz sensed it. He set his wine glass down and took mine from me placing it on the table. He pulled me onto his lap, wrapping

his strong arms around me. I felt his lips brush my hair. “She’s in Indianapolis, too. They are leaving to come back to Virginia tomorrow. He said they would arrive home sometime in the evening. So you see, she is able to travel and all. I don’t think it is right that this is all the information you’ve been given. Please believe me sweetheart, it is all the information that I’ve been given, too.” “Oh, Taz, what am I supposed to think? I mean, I need to know more than that. I’m thinking the worst here. That’s not right.” “I know, baby,” he said, rocking me gently in his arms. “I’m calling Slate.”

“What?” I struggled up off of his lap and dug my cell phone out of my bag. I quickly hit his contact name on the list and waited. He didn’t pick up. I repeated this four times. I didn’t give a damn. I would blow his phone up until he answered. Finally I heard his voice. “What the hell is going on with my mother, Slate?” “Lindsey,” he said, “everything is going to be fine. We were going to explain it all to you tomorrow evening, at home.” “I would prefer you give me at least the Reader’s Digest version now, Slate. I’m starting to freak out here.”

“Okay, okay. Calm down, please.” I took a deep breath and tried like hell to relax. “I’m not comfortable talking female stuff, Lindsey. That’s the only reason why I wanted to wait until your mother and I returned tomorrow night. I guess I figured that she’d do most of the talking. I understand now how that must have freaked knowing nothing except you were needed at home.” “It did, Slate. My God, I was thinking she must be terminally ill or something.” “I’m sorry, Lindsey. Your mom is pregnant.” “She is? She never said anything

about it.” “That’s because she isn’t very far along and there have been some intermittent complications.” “Complications?” “You see, we’ve been trying for another baby since Bryce was about six months old. Now, your mom is a young, healthy woman, but because there seemed to be issues with her conceiving again, her doctor prescribed a fertility drug which was supposed to increase some type of hormone that helps ovulation along.” “Okay,” I said. “I’ve heard of those.” “Well, sometimes those fertility drugs increase the chance of multiples.

Your mom is expecting twins. She is not quite three months along. It is still very early. She only discovered she was pregnant yesterday when she went to the ER in Indianapolis.” Oh God, what happened? “Your mom started experiencing some significant pain followed by some spotting. She decided to go to the ER. They ran tests and determined she was pregnant. They followed that up with an ultrasound and discovered she was carrying twins.” “Oh my God, twins?” “Uh huh, identical twins; there are complications though. Apparently there is something called ‘TTTS’ - Twin to

Twin Transfusion Syndrome. Without going in to all the details, it’s an issue with the placenta that affects the blood flow to the babies; one gets more than the other.” “How serious is this, Slate?” I asked. “It’s going to require her to have total bed rest for a period of time. Once she gets to sixteen weeks gestation, she will have weekly ultrasounds. Her doctors will decide the next course of action.” “Oh, Slate,” I said, my heart feeling heavy, “Is Mom doing alright with this? She’s a worrier you know.” “I know she is, but right now she is being optimistic because she

understands that stressing out will only further complicate her condition. She knows she needs to stay flat on her back for a while. Lindsey, we need your help at home. I know this is a lot to ask of you, but I think caring for Bryce day in and day out would be too much for your grandmother, although she offered.” “Slate, stop; of course I will be there for all of you. We’re family and that is what family does. You tell Mom not to worry. I will see you all tomorrow evening.” “You’re a good kid, Lindsey. Sorry I meant to say you’re a fine young woman, Lindsey.” “Thank you, Slate; kiss Mom for

me.” I got off of the phone and filled Taz in on the details. He knew I was concerned. “So, then you’re good with withdrawing from school this semester?” “I don’t see how it can be helped, Taz. Family has to be the priority here.” “You kind of amaze me at times, Lindsey.” He pulled me over to him and kissed me several times. I snuggled into him, loving the closeness. “I, on the other hand, have my online class work to do. How about feeding me, woman?” God, he so reminded me of Slate

when he acted like that. I made some creamed chipped beef over toast, or as Taz preferred to call it “shit on the shingle.” I considered it comfort food. Taz said it reminded him of his Army days. He did a nice job of wolfing down several helpings. Darcy came bouncing in as we were finishing up and scarfed the rest down. I filled her in on what was going on with my mother. “You’re leaving school?” she wailed, “for how long?” “I’m not sure, Darcy. I guess I’ll know more after I talk with my mom. I’m going to the campus registrar to

withdraw from my classes tomorrow. I have to leave afterwards for home.” “That really blows,” she said, helping me clean up the kitchen. “We’ll keep your room for you here, don’t worry about that. I’ll still see you on the weekends.” I knew with Darcy now dating Darin she would be home every weekend which offered me some consolation. “You better make time for me when you’re home on the weekends,” I chided. “I’ve a feeling that it’s going to be all about Darin, though.” “I don’t diss my BFF for any man,” she said, laughing. “Speaking of which, it’s time for my call to him. See you guys later.”

Taz was over on the couch, pounding away on his laptop for his class. I was feeling crampy and decided to use this time for a nice, warm shower. I discovered that my period had made an early appearance. I guess everyone was going to get a good night’s rest tonight. After my shower, I put on my comfortable PJs with the built-in feet. I liked to wear them in the winter, especially when I felt crampy, because they were so soft and snuggly. I dug through the medicine cabinet and popped a couple of Motrin. I spritzed my hair with detangle and combed through it, blowing it dry. I

brushed my teeth and flossed. I was totally ready for bed and I was certain it wasn’t even eight o’clock yet. I had been trying to kill as much time as possible to let Taz finish his online class. I finally headed back out to the living room. He was still perched on the sofa, tapping away. He glanced up as I came into the living room and did a doubletake. What? “I take it we’re not having sex tonight,” he commented, focusing on my PJ s . “I even bought condoms while I was out today.” “Gosh, Taz, as totally seductive as you just made all of that sound; your powers of perception have once again

blown me away.” He gave me a lopsided grin, raking his hand through his hair and rubbing the back of his neck. He shut the cover on his laptop pushing it aside. “Come here, smartass,” he ordered, patting his lap. I went over to him and he pulled me down onto his lap, burying his face into mine. His stubble felt like tiny needles pricking my skin. “Ow,” I said, laughing and trying my best to pull away. “Your whiskers are killer.” “Really?” he said in his sexy voice. “I bet your thighs and pussy might like the feel of them rubbing all around.”

“Oh, so you like riding the crimson tide, then?” He tilted his head in confusion. “The what?” “I got my period this evening, Taz,” I said, laughing as I observed it finally sinking in to him. “Oh, I’m sorry baby,” he said. “Do you feel bad?” “I’m a little crampy. I popped a couple of Motrin. It’s all good, well except for the obvious. I’m disappointed, too.” He shifted me around on his lap so that I was now facing him. His face was serious. “Lindsey, I want you to go on the

pill. Is that an issue?” My stomach butterflies swirled. I had never gone on the pill because I had never needed to be on the pill. Taz now wanted me on the pill because he had plans to fuck me on a regular basis. “No, Taz. It’s not an issue at all. I’ll see my doctor when I get back to Falls Church.” “Good,” he said, lifting me off of him and giving me a playful swat on the rump. “I’m going to grab a shower and shave. Then I would appreciate you spending time with me on the couch. There’s a game on that I want to watch, but I want you in my lap when I do.” “It’s a date,” I replied, going to the

kitchen for a glass of wine. “Don’t keep me waiting too long, Taz.” And he didn’t. He was back within thirty minutes, showered, shaved wearing his navy blue FBI tee shirt and navy blue cotton drawstring pajama bottoms. He put the game on, pulling me onto his lap where we cuddled until I fell asleep. Sometime much later, I felt him carry me to my bedroom. He pulled the covers back and placed me gently on the bed. I felt him take his place beside me. His arms pulled me against him. We fell asleep curled around each other as if it was an every night thing. My Taz.

CHAPTER 28 I got everything situated with the school on Friday. I was taking a temporary emergency leave due to family illness. This meant that I wouldn’t be dropped from my program of study unless it extended into or beyond the following semester. I was able to work out transferring two of my classes to online status which made me feel better. Back at the apartment, I packed up most of my clothes and personal items. I was carefully putting Robespierre on top of the clothing I had packed in the last suitcase when Taz wandered in.

“A childhood friend?” he asked, nodding toward the well-worn stuffed poodle. “Sort of,” I replied smiling nostalgically. “It was a gift my father brought back for me when he traveled to France on business. It’s funny, I just found him again when I was home at Christmas. Mom had packed him up when she moved from Indy. Before I left for college, he was a constant in my bed at home.” “It looks like he has seen better days,” Taz said, grinning. “Is that how I’m going to look one of these days?” I looked up at him and saw his eyes sparkling mischievously.

“Very funny,” I replied, looking back at Robespierre with the tattered purple sash tied around his neck. “Maybe I can spruce him up a bit,” I said, getting an idea from the purple satin ribbon I still had set aside when I opened the box containing the roses. I went to the kitchen and grabbed the purple ribbon and a scissors and returned to my room. Taz was busy packing his duffel bag with the clothing he had brought for his stay. I measured the silk ribbon from the box, and cut it to the appropriate length. I sat on my bed, and put Robespierre on my lap as my fingers worked to untie the tattered sash that was knotted around the

neck. I finally used the scissors to cut it off and unwound the rest of it. That is when I noticed how the stuffed poodle’s head now flopped to the front. That was strange. I turned him over to check the back and saw that the seam had been ripped. There was a gap of a couple of inches. I could see the stuffing. “Oh, he’s torn,” I remarked, sticking my finger in the opening and wiggling it. “Poor little pooch.” Taz looked over and shook his head. “Well, we don’t have time for you to sew him up right now. We need to get going, baby girl.” The index finger I had been wiggling

inside of the stuffed toy came in contact with something. Taz glanced over and saw my furrowed brow. “What is it, babe?” “There’s something in here,” I said, poking my middle finger in to help grasp what turned out to be a small plastic bag with a sealed top. It was one of those tiny bags like extra buttons are put in when you buy a coat, in case you lose one. There was no button in this small, plastic bag. There was a key. “Drop it,” Taz said immediately. I let it fall to the bed looking at him in confusion. “We need to preserve any prints that

might be on that bag, besides yours now,” he explained. “Do you have tweezers?” Silly man. Did he think I had been born with these perfectly arched eyebrows? What female didn’t have tweezers? I pulled tweezers from the make-up bag on my bed. “Can you get me a baggie or something, Lindsey?” I went to the kitchen and came back with one. Taz used the tweezers to life the small bag with the key and dropped it into the larger plastic bag, sealing it up. “I’ll take this to our lab when we get back to D.C. and run the key and the plastic bag for prints.”

“That’s kind of an odd looking key, isn’t it?” “It looks like a key to either a post office box or safety deposit box. Do you know whether your father had either?” I shook my head. “Mom might know.” What were the chances that I would have come across that key to begin with? Maybe I wasn’t supposed to find it. I shivered. I finished tying the new purple ribbons around Robespierre. It did make his head less floppy being supported with a new sash. “Sweetie,” Taz said, watching me. “I’m going to need to take your little poodle there, too.”

“Why?” I said, looking at him in confusion. “There’s nothing else in there but stuffing.” “I just need to have the lab check and make sure.” “So, the gist of it is that the one thing I have left that my father gave me is going to be ripped to shreds?” “I will see that he is sewn back up good as new,” he said. “There,” I said, tossing the stuffed dog over to him. I went back to my packing in silence. Why did everything have to be put under a microscope these days? Taz followed me on the two-hour trek to Falls Church. He brought my

suitcases and boxes into the house. I told him where my room was and he lugged everything upstairs for me. The house was quiet for now. I knew that would change this evening once Mom, Slate and Bryce got home. I checked the fridge to see if Slate had been bothering to shop while Mom had been gone. I was pleasantly surprised to see that he had everything well stocked. The house had been kept neat and clean as well. I had just sat down on the sofa in the family room when my phone sounded. It was Kyzer. Taz hadn’t come back downstairs yet. “Hey, Kyzer,” I greeted.

“Hey, Lindsey,” he said. “I just wondered if you were home sick or something. I haven’t seen you at school the past couple of days.” “I was going to call you this evening,” I replied. “Everything has kind of been chaotic. I’m at home in Falls Church. My stepfather called earlier in the week and said I was needed at home. There’s been a bit of a family emergency. I had to withdraw from my classes to come home and help out.” “Oh, Lindsey,” he said, sounding genuinely concerned, “it’s nothing serious, I hope.” I appreciated the fact that he wasn’t trying to be nosy about it. I didn’t totally

agree with Taz on his assessment of Kyzer. “Well, it’s not life threatening or anything. I’m helping my mother out until she starts feeling better. Mostly, I will be looking after my baby brother and helping out around the house.” “I hope everything works out okay, Lindsey. Is there anything I can do?” “Well actually, Kyzer. I am taking two of my classes online now. They happen to be the same ones that you and I were taking together. I’m not worried about the English Composition, but you know how much I hate Physics. It’s like second nature to you. So, since I won’t have easy access to a professor, would you mind terribly if I call you when I get

in a bind? You’re pretty great at explaining theory.” “That is no problem whatsoever. We can be online study buddies if you want.” I felt relieved. I knew Kyzer was a whiz at any type of science class. I had initially been concerned about transitioning that class to online status.” “Great. Thank you.” I gave Kyzer my email address. He said he would email the notes he had taken in today’s class on a word document for me to review. “Hang in there, Lindsey,” he said. “Lean on me whenever you feel the need, okay?”

Taz was coming into the room and with the way he felt about Kyzer, I felt it best to wrap up the conversation. “Thanks again,” I said. “I better get going. I have a lot to do.” “Okay. Check your emails when you get a chance. I’ll have the notes waiting for you.” Taz was giving me a look that plainly asked “Who was that?” “That was Kyzer,” I answered his unspoken question. “He was just checking to see if I was sick or something since I wasn’t in class.” “Humph,” he muttered, “At least you won’t have to be exposed to that Poindexter anymore,” he replied.

I decided it was best not to let Taz know we were going to be online study buddies. He had a major issue with Kyzer that I was convinced was more territorial than anything else. “We have a few hours until Slate and your mom get here. Do you want to go out and eat?” he asked. “Sounds good to me,” I replied. Taz took me to his favorite Mexican restaurant. It was called ‘El Papagyos.’ Mexican food was not my favorite cuisine, but the food and atmosphere there definitely moved it up a couple of notches. It might have been the company I was with. We enjoyed dinner just talking about normal things for a change.

Taz had grown up in Marin County in northern California. His parents still lived in Sausalito, the town where he was raised until he enlisted in the Army after completing his B.S. in Military Science at U.C. Berkeley. After graduation, he immediately enlisted in the Army and made E-4 right after boot camp. He then began jump school and graduated as a Green Beret within six months. That is when he met Slate. “So, what about your family?” I asked. He shrugged. “They’re like a lot of other families I suppose; hard-working, honest, driven,

flawed, opinionated, proud, judgmental, conflicted.” “Wow,” I said, sipping a glass of Sangria. “That’s a lot of adjectives, most of them not exactly flattering.” “Oh, yeah?” he replied, looking directly at me. “How would you describe your family, Lindsey?” “Now or before?” “The family that raised you?” “I guess at the time, I considered them loving, caring, dedicated, comforting, secure, and nurturing.” “And now?” he asked, cocking that lovely eyebrow. “Clearly fractured and dysfunctional; but you’re the Psych major now. You already knew that.”

“No family is perfect, Lindsey. I am glad that your mother is with Slate now. Even though Slate’s not blood to you, he does care and will always do what is best for your mother and brother, and he will do his best to be there for you. He understands you’re grown up. I’ll bet he even understands that you still love your father; that your love for a parent doesn’t just magically disappear.” “Why do I get the feeling that somehow there is a cryptic message underneath what you are saying to me right now, Taz?” He shifted in his seat, his hands folded underneath his chin. “I saw the way you were this

afternoon with the stuffed dog your father had given you; the way you wanted to fix it so it looked as good as new again. Is that what you think is possible with the relationship between you and your father, should he come back into your life?” I mulled over his words in my head. “Is that really the question you are asking me, Taz?” “I’m not following?” “I think the question that you just asked me is not really the question that is burning in your mind. I think what you really want to know is if somehow, my father should make contact with me, be it in person, or by phone, or by freaking carrier pigeon, what I will do. Am I

right?” “It’s a legitimate question, Lindsey.” “Then why did you dance around it? Why didn’t you phrase it the way it should have been asked? I don’t want you playing Psych 101 with me, Taz. I don’t want you asking me things in order to interpret it to mean something else or speculate my behavior that way. If we can’t be upfront and honest, then what the hell are we doing hanging with each other?” “Fair enough,” he replied, “I get it.” “Okay, then. Here’s your answer. If my father somehow approached me and asked me to help him hide, or contacted me to meet him somewhere, I would

refuse. I would tell him that I loved him. I would also tell him to turn himself into the authorities and let it play out in our judicial system. I would advise him that under no uncertain terms would I assume the role of aiding and abetting his flight from prosecution. I would also ask that he never contact me again if he didn’t plan on following my advice.” Taz reached over and picked up my hand, gently lifting it to his lips. He kissed it softly, his green eyes gazing at me. “What if during all of this, you were made aware of where he was staying, or where he was heading. Would you assist the authorities in seeking him out?” “Do you mean like saying I would

meet him and then double-crossing him so that he could be apprehended?” “Yes, exactly.” “Absolutely not.”

CHAPTER 29 Taz and I had driven home in silence from the restaurant. I suspected he was not happy with the answer I had given him on his final question. I had to be honest though. I knew what my father had done was wrong. I also believed that people that break the law need to be held accountable. I had to draw the line at playing ‘bounty hunter’ with my own father though. When we got home, Mom and Slate were still not in yet. I felt like Taz was only sticking around out of some sense of obligation to Slate. It was starting a bit to feel like I had a babysitter.

“Look Taz, I know you probably want to get back to your place and take care of whatever slipped through the cracks while you were in Charlottesville over the past few days. I’m fine here by myself. I’m not afraid of the dark. I don’t think I am in any imminent danger or anything.” “So that’s it, huh? You’re kicking me to the curb?” “No, not at all. It just seems to me that maybe there is someplace else you’d rather be.” “And you would know this how?" “Well, for one thing, you’ve barely spoken to me since we left the restaurant. I can only conclude that you

didn’t like the answer I gave you. Would you prefer I not be honest with you?” “Baby girl, I am not displeased with your answer. It was honest and it was normal. I wouldn’t have expected you to answer any other way.” “Suppose it was the other way around, Taz. Suppose it was your father in that scenario and I was you and you were me. How would you have answered that question?” “I really don’t know, Lindsey. My main concern is for you, at this point. I hope that you are never put into that position,” he said softly, lifting my chin to kiss me softly. “I hope that there is another way.” “Then you aren’t upset with me?”

“No, not at all. If I was quiet it’s only because I have a lot on my mind for the operation in Baltimore that is coming up.” “Baltimore? What’s going on in Baltimore?” “Nothing that I can share with you, but I want you to listen up, okay?” I nodded as he sat on the sofa and pulled me onto his lap. “Slate and I leave for Baltimore on Tuesday. We’ve been working on this investigation for months and hopefully, everything will be resolved during this trip.” “How long will you be there?” “Possibly a week, maybe longer if

complications arise.” I didn’t like the sound of that one bit. “I’ll call you if I can, but you can’t call or text me, understood?” “I don’t do that now, Taz. I’m cuddly not clingy, in case you haven’t noticed.” “I do see that and I appreciate it,” he replied, smiling at me as he brushed my hair from my forehead. “I will miss you, though,” he said softly, almost as if he was saying it more to himself than to me. My heart did a double back-flip for the first time ever. “I’m sure I will miss you, too. I might even worry, if that’s allowed.” “I don’t want you to worry,” he said. “Because if I know you are worrying,

then I’ll be distracted, you see?” “I think I understand. So, then I will not be worried if that’s not allowed.” “It’s not,” he stated firmly, kissing the tip of my nose. That was all it took. Within moments we were tangled up all over each other making out like a couple of teenagers on the sofa. His hands had my sweater up over my head, his lips and tongue were teasing my breasts, and his fingers plying at my nipples, squeezing them just enough to bring pleasurable pain, if that’s possible. My hands were fumbling with the zipper on his jeans; frantically trying to

spring his cock free so that I could feel that very soft skin with my fingers. He was groaning softly, his lips now pressed against mine, his tongue furiously searching for mine as I nearly had it out. The sound of the front door being unlocked and Slate’s loud voice bellowing my name caused us to freeze in mid-motion. I frantically tried to sit up to get my sweater pulled down, accidently kneeing Taz in the crotch when I did. I heard him stifle his curse as my hand flew up to my mouth in horror. “Sorry, sorry,” I whispered hoarsely, managing to get my sweater pulled down.

I ran my fingers through my hair as Taz took a seat beside me, crossing his legs to hide his erection. I tossed a magazine over to him from the coffee table to further help camouflage his current condition. I rose from the sofa, going to the refrigerator as if I was getting a soda when Slate made it to the kitchen carrying Bryce. “I didn’t hear you come in,” I lied. Slate scrunched his forehead in disbelief. “I hollered for you,” he said. “Oh, I just came up from the basement. I was checking to see if you had any beer in the fridge down there for

Taz.” I was absolutely no good at fibbing, at least not spur of the moment fibbing. “Lindsey, there is beer on the bottom shelf in this fridge, see?” Slate replied, pointing to the bottom shelf. “Oh, so there is; my bad. Would you grab one for Taz? Where’s Mom?” I asked, taking Bryce from him. “The medical transport van is a few minutes behind us. She’ll be here in a few,” Slate replied, tossing a beer to Taz, who was now standing at the kitchen breakfast bar. He opened one for himself. Slate looked worn out. “You mean she had to be transported by an ambulance?” “It’s a long drive, Lindsey. She

needs to lie on her back for the next two months. She can only get up to use the bathroom and shower once a day. That is it until she sees her doctor here.” “When will that be?” “We have an initial appointment Monday with her OB/GYN, but that will involve more testing. We will know more once he gets the results back and confirms what the hospital in Indianapolis diagnosed.” “Do you want me to take her to her appointment? I asked. “I can probably handle both her and Bryce.” “I want to clarify some things before she gets here, okay?” I nodded.

“I truly appreciate the sacrifice you’ve made in doing this. I don’t want you to totally give up your life. I’m going to be leaving for Baltimore on Tuesday. I won’t be able to help at all for the next week, maybe longer.” “Baltimore?” I asked, as if this was news to me. “Yeah. I’m on assignment. I’ll be calling in when I can though. I’ve arranged for a home healthcare nurse to come in once a day for a few hours so that she can help your mother shower and change, prepare dinner for them so you can get out for a few hours. She’ll also check your mother’s vitals and report her condition to the doctor. I

know it’s not much, but you’re going to need a breather being cooped up here 24/7. So I encourage you to take advantage of it for your own wellbeing, got it?” “Yes. Thanks, Slate.” “Also, I have a cleaning service that will come in once a week to do the major cleaning. All you need to do is keep the house picked up from this little whirlwind here, handle him and do laundry. Will that work?” “It’s no problem at all, Slate.” “Okay, good.” Bryce was squirming in my arms now, starting to fuss. “He’s probably ready to go down for the night, Lindsey.”

“I’ll handle it,” I said, heading towards the nursery with him. I gave Bryce a quick sponge bath and put a clean diaper and jammies on him. He had his thumb in his mouth. That was a sure sign he was tired. I put him in his crib and wound up his musical mobile. He rolled unto his side; thumb in mouth and within five minutes, his eyelids closed. I pulled his little blanket up to his waist. The poor little guy was probably confused with all the commotion in his life recently. I left his nightlight on, leaving the door to his nursery slightly ajar. When I got out to the main hall, Mom was coming in the door. Slate had his

arm around her. I was surprised at how pale she looked. “Lindsey,” she said, her face brightening. “I’m so sorry that you had to come home like this, honey.” “Mom, stop. I mean it. The most important thing is getting you into bed so you can rest.” “Rest is all I seem to be able to do lately. The pain medication that doctor put me on sees to that.” “I’ll help her get ready for bed, Slate.” “Thanks, Linds.” I helped Mom change into a comfortable nightgown after she used the bathroom. She climbed into her bed and snuggled down under the covers.

I sat on the bed next to her my worry lines apparently showing. “Lindsey, everything is going to be fine. I see my own doctor on Monday. Slate is taking me so don’t worry about that. The pain I am having is not related to everything else. Apparently, I have a fibroid tumor in my uterus that was causing the excruciating pain. The good news is as my uterus grows in the next couple of weeks, the pain will subside. The main concern is the TTTS. I could lose one or both of the babies.” I saw her tear up and immediately, I took her hand in mine. “I’m sure there is something they can do, right?”

She nodded, wiping a tear from her cheeks. “There are a couple of options I guess. Periodic amniocentesis to drain off the excess fluid which would continue throughout term; or perhaps laser surgery to seal off the connection between the blood vessels depending upon where the placenta is implanted on the womb. We just don’t know anything definitive yet. That’s the hard part.” “Mom, you didn’t even know you were pregnant? I mean hadn’t you skipped a couple of periods?” “Well, the strange thing is that before Bryce was born, my cycles were like clockwork. After that, my periods were

helter-skelter. That’s why we were having trouble conceiving this time. As it turns out, the fibroid tumor was responsible for that as well. So, it just didn’t strike me odd until that day when I was with your grandmother at the lawyer’s office, and I felt so much pain.” “Well, the important thing is that you’re home now. Slate and I will take care of you. I am here just as long as you need me, okay?” “I don’t know what I would do without you, Lindsey. I love you so very much.” “I love you too, Mom.” She was asleep within moments. I turned off the light and left the door open to her room in case she needed anything.

Slate and Taz were still in the family room. I could tell they were discussing bureau business. They looked up as I came into the room. “Mom’s sleeping comfortably, Slate. I’m thinking maybe I’ll sleep down here after you leave.” “That may not be a bad idea, Lindsey. I’m gonna to check on her. I didn’t give her a goodnight kiss.” I thought it was so sweet the way that Slate fussed over her. It was usually the other way around. It did my heart good to see how he reciprocated. I looked over at Taz after Slate left the room. “I’m beat, Taz. I think I’m going to

say goodnight. I guess you’ll be pretty busy over the weekend with your school work and getting ready for whatever it is you will be doing in Baltimore, right?” He came over to where I was standing, pulling me into his strong chest. “Hey, how about we spend some time together tomorrow? It’s Saturday, Slate will be home to handle things. It will probably be the last chance to hang out before I leave.” “I’m sure we can work something out.” “Good. I’m running that key to the lab in Quantico tomorrow morning. I’ll give you a shout sometime tomorrow afternoon, okay?”

“Sounds good,” I said, yawning. “Get to bed,” he ordered softly giving me a quick kiss. “When Slate gets back out here I have to fill him in on that key.” “G’nite, Taz.” “G’nite, Linds.”

CHAPTER 30 I got up early and tended to Bryce while Slate helped Mom get her shower and dress in clean sweats. I brought breakfast to their room later. Slate was lounging beside her on the bed, channel surfing the flat screen television mounted on the opposite wall. At least she would be able to watch movies and stuff while confined to her bed. Her iPad was on the bedside table for reading and internet surfing. Hopefully, it wouldn’t be too bad. “I’m going to start some laundry and then take Bryce and run to the store, if that’s okay,” I said to them. “I need to

get some stuff for me this week.” “Sure,” Mom said. “You don’t have to take Bryce though. He’ll be fine here with us.” “I kind of wanted to,” I replied. “He’s good company.” “Okay then, Lindsey. Be careful.” “Always, Mom.” I fed Bryce his lunch and then got him bundled up. We headed out. I stopped at the grocery, then the pharmacy and then treated him to a stop at ‘Toys’R’Us’. He was reaching for practically everything he set his eyes upon as we walked through each and every aisle. I finally bought him a stuffed turtle

whose head would retract into his shell when you pressed a button underneath, and reluctantly gave in to his whining and pointing when he saw a toy gun. It was a plastic gun that made a ‘popping’ sound when the trigger was pulled. That apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree I thought, as he giggled with delight clutching the gun to his chest instead of the stuffed turtle. I was fastening Bryce into his car seat when my cell phone rang. My heart did a little flutter thinking it was Taz. I felt disappointed when I saw it was Darcy. “Hey Darce,” I greeted. “Hey yourself,” she said. “I’m ho-oomme!”

“So you are,” I said. “I suppose you are booked all weekend with your GMan though.” “Yeah right,” she scoffed. “He’s tied up all day today doing some sort of ‘counter-terrorist’ simulation that was announced last minute. We won’t be able to get together until tomorrow." “That blows,” I said, getting into the driver’s side and fastening my seat belt. “So? Wanna go out clubbing later?” “Taz is supposed to call me when he gets back from Quantico this afternoon. He wanted to spend some time together. He is leaving on some mission Tuesday so it will be our last chance to hang out.” “It’s like after two now. You haven’t

heard from him yet?” “Nope,” I replied, feeling a hint of irritation myself. “So how long do you intend to wait for his booty call before you decide to salvage the rest of the day?” “It’s not a booty call,” I halfway snapped. “Really?” she said, drawing the word out as if she found it hard to believe. “I’m on my period,” I retorted, getting a tad short with her. “Oh, then perhaps booty call was the wrong terminology. Perhaps I should have referred to it as his ‘blow job’ call under the circumstances.” If I hadn’t already felt a bit irritated

about it anyway, I would have laughed at Darcy’s banter. The fact was it shouldn’t have taken all of this time for Taz to drop some freaking key off at the lab and get back to Falls Church. This would be my last opportunity to get out for an evening in a while anyway.” “Tell you what, Darce. If I don’t hear from him in the next couple of hours, let’s make plans.” “Sounds good,” she said. “Call me one way or the other?” “Sure will,” I said, starting the car and heading home. When I got back to the house, I changed Bryce’s diaper. He had managed a shit explosion of major

proportions. I ran out of baby wipes after using the last in the container. This was going to require a wet wash cloth. I was changing him in his crib so I raised the rail up putting a blanket over his wee-wee so he wouldn’t pee all over himself while I went to the bathroom to get one. I had learned that lesson the hard way. “Don’t move,” I said to him, tickling his chubby little chin. God, he was cute. The bathroom was off of his nursery. It was the same bathroom shared by the master suite. I opened the door from the nursery, breezing in to fetch a wash cloth not realizing that Slate was occupying it. He was standing at the toilet, penis in hand

taking a leak. Oh my God! I stopped in my tracks, my face turning crimson, my hand flying up to cover my mouth. He looked over at me mid-stream unable to do anything but finish peeing. I backed out, eyes widened, stuttering an apology as I felt for the doorway, whirling around and beating a fast exist. I slammed the door behind me leaning against it. I was horrified at what I had done. It hadn’t occurred to me that someone using the bathroom wouldn’t have locked the access door from the nursery. I suppose he hadn’t figured

Bryce would be barging in any time soon. I went over to the crib. Bryce’s eyelids were heavy. I checked his bottom. It definitely needed more cleaning. I went out the other door from the nursery, heading to the kitchen. I wet a paper towel, scurrying back to the nursery avoiding any risk of running into Slate. I wiped his bottom clean and fastened a fresh diaper on him. I pulled his blanket to his waist and watched as he drifted off to sleep, clutching his new toy gun instead of his turtle which made me smile. I left the nursery and quietly slipped upstairs to my room. How in the hell

would I ever face Slate again? I didn’t want to think about it. I slipped into the shower, taking my time washing my hair, shaving my legs and waiting for my cell phone to ring. After I emerged from the bathroom thoroughly clean, conditioned and blown-dry I checked my phone. Nothing. My clock said it was 4:16 p.m. Screw this. I phoned Darcy. “What up?” she asked, putting on her ‘gangsta’ tone. God, she must be bored. “I haven’t heard a thing. What do you want to do?” “Listen to this, Linds. I ran into Jess and Sonya, remember them from Dazzle?”

“Not the lesbians?” I asked. “No, they are the bartenders that hooked up and got married. “Oh yeah, so what about them?” “Well, they told me that Dazzle has booked a previously famous alternative metal group for tonight in a surprise concert to launch their major comeback tour.” “Who?” I asked. “Hot Addiction,” she all but screamed. “You have to remember them.” “Vaguely,” I replied, not nearly as stoked as she was. “So, here’s the deal,” she continued. “Their surprise appearance will be to

open for the regularly scheduled pop rock band they have starting to play at nine. We need to get there no later than 7:30 p.m. to get an up close table so we can see them.” “So, what time are you picking me up?” “Here’s the thing. I have no problem picking you up but I plan to party. Can you just plan on sleeping over here and I will bring you back in the morning?” “Oh, Darcy, I don’t know. You understand the situation with my Mom. The whole reason I’m here is to help out with Bryce.” “Well, isn’t Slate there still?” “Well, yeah.” “So, just see if he as an issue with

it? I can have you back my like nine tomorrow morning. I’m promise I’ll be sober by then.” I couldn’t deal with having to approach Slate on anything right now. If it was possible to avoid him until he took off for Baltimore on Tuesday that would have been my preference. I knew that was unrealistic. Okay,” I sighed. “I’ll be ready at seven.” “Wear something that totally rocks. We are going to party,” she replied, bubbling over with enthusiasm. Mom was napping as I discovered when I peeked in on her to search out Slate.

I was still in my long, terrycloth robe. I traipsed into the kitchen looking for Slate. He was kicked back in the family room, his cell phone up to his ear. As he saw me approach, he held his finger up as if to signal me to hang on; he’d be right with me. His demeanor seemed no different than usual. “So, how’d you shoot?” he asked whoever was on the other end. “That good, huh? I thought you might be a little rusty being you haven’t been on the range for a while.” He paused, waiting for a response at the other end. “Yeah, yeah, don’t give me that shit. You only did as well as you did because

you were trying to impress ‘Dirty Diana’, you horny bastard.” Slate was chuckling over some private joke. “What do you mean, how did I know she was even at the range? It’s called Intel, Taz. I have the pulse of everything that goes on at Quantico, no matter what or where.” Slate looked over at me winking. He was totally enjoying fucking with Taz. I was totally starting a slow burn. “Naw, I talked to Hatfield earlier. He told me you did a double stint at the range this afternoon after Dee Dee got there. He figured you were working on some best laid plans before we take off for Baltimore. Hey, enjoy brother. I gotta

run.” All thoughts of being embarrassed in front of Slate evaporated. Who the hell was ‘Dirty Diana’ or ‘D.D’ for short? Obviously, she was the reason I hadn’t heard from Taz all afternoon. Slate looked over at me. “Sorry about that, Lindsey. Did you want to speak to me?” “Oh, yeah,” I stammered, trying to focus on the purpose of my visit. “Darcy called and a great band is playing at Dazzle tonight. She’s going to pick me up at seven. The thing is that Darcy is planning on partying and lives really close to Dazzle, so she said she could run me back here in the morning. Can

you handle Bryce until I get home?” “Are you really going to be with Darcy?” Slate teased. I was in no mood for this shit. “Slate,” I said, my voice not masking my irritation. “Stop treating me as a teenager. I’m not asking your permission to stay out all night. I’m simply trying to ascertain if this will create a problem for you handling Bryce until I get home. That is why I dropped out of school and came home, remember?” “Oh, yeah, I was just teasing, Lindsey. Sure, it’s all good. Have a good time and be careful.” “Good,” I said turning to leave. I stopped then and turned back to look at him.

“Oh, Slate, there is one more thing?” “Sure Linds, what is it?” “Start locking the bathroom door on the nursery side when you’re in there.” I turned back around and left the room. Once I got back upstairs, I was fuming. I switched my television on and got my nail polish out. I put a towel down on my bed and started painting my toenails. When I was sure they weren’t tacky any longer, I got up and went through my closet to find an appropriate dress for this evening. I decided on a short, form fitting red dress that had a matching red bolero jacket trimmed with black

embroidered scrollwork. I would accessorize with black four-inch heels, and black jewelry. I had hung my dress out on the door of the closet when my phone rang. It was Taz. Go figure. I mean it was only a quarter till six! “Hello,” I answered, frostily. “Hey, baby girl,” he greeted as if it were the most natural thing in the world for him to diss me all day long then give me a last minute shout out. “ “Taz,” I said. “Are you busy?” he asked. I could picture his brows arching up the way they do when he is puzzled. “Just getting ready,” I replied, going

into the bathroom to plug in my flat iron. “For what?” “Darcy is picking me up around seven. We’re going clubbing.” That was met with a moment of silence. “I see,” he replied, tersely. “I thought we had plans.” “Yeah, I thought so too, Taz, but when I didn’t hear from you for the better part of the day, I figured that we didn’t. I made some of my own.” “So, we’re playing games now?” “I’m not interested in playing games, Taz.” “What do you call this?” “I call this having a life of my own.

Yes, I would have preferred spending time with you today or this evening, but I didn’t presume that it was going to happen when I didn’t hear from you until just now.” “Shit, Lindsey, you could have called me if you need that much fucking lead time to plan your daily social activities. I had things to do in Quantico today. I explained that to you yesterday.” I was now thoroughly steamed. Was he clueless? “You never mentioned it was going to take you all day to drop a key off at the forensic lab.” “I had other things I needed to take care of while I was there. I needed to get some shooting practice done. It’s been a

while.” “I’ll bet,” I said in my menstrual, snotty tone. “What is that supposed to mean?” “What it means, Taz, is that common courtesy would have been to touch base before it got this late if we were to have plans for this afternoon!” “Hey,” he snapped back, “I never said a thing about this afternoon being when we would get together.” “True; but you did say you would get in touch with me this afternoon. Here’s a bulletin, Taz: afternoon has ended.” “Jesus Christ, Lindsey. You see? This is exactly why I avoid cultivating anything other than sexual relationships.

It is too fucking complicated.” His words stung me like a thousand bees. I had friends over the years both in high school and now college that had been in their fair share of relationships. I had watched on the sidelines, witnessing how some of them had been very high maintenance. That wasn’t my style, yet somehow Taz was making me feel like it was. “Look, Taz, this isn’t worth arguing about. You committed to something and you didn’t follow through. It wasn’t my responsibility to hunt you down to confirm our plans.” “Oh, I see,” he said. “It’s the man’s job to perform to your expectations, to

understand the rules of protocol with high maintenance chicks. Well, Lindsey, that is not my style. I’m nobody’s lap dog. So, if you think I’m going to be out there chasing your ass all over D.C. tonight like some freaking, alpha control freak, think again.” “Why don’t you go fuck yourself, Taz? Or better yet, go fuck Dirty Diana,” I hissed. “That is probably more your style.” I ended the call, tossing my phone on the bed and went to finish my hair and make-up.

CHAPTER 31 I was sitting at our ringside table at Dazzle, sucking down my third (possibly fourth) ‘Big Titty Ho on a Motorcycle’. Darcy had insisted that I would love it. It was tequila, Pepsi, amaretto, and whiskey-sour mix. I had to admit, they were growing on me. I was decked out, feeling the fuzzy effect of the alcohol and watching Darcy dancing with different guys on the floor. I had been asked to dance about a half dozen times, politely declining. I was content to sit back and watch while getting hammered. The band took a break and Darcy

returned to the table, fanning her face to cool off. She was dressed in a tiny little tight purple skirt with a black sparkly top that was drawing a lot of attention. She flopped down in the chair across from me, taking a big swallow of her Orgasm #8: tequila and Bailey’s Irish Cream. I didn’t do drinks with Bailey’s. “Hey,” she said, “I literally bumped into Sonya on the dance floor. She’s going to stop over in a bit to join us for the evening.” “That’s cool,” I replied. “So,” she said, brushing the damp hair off of her forehead. “Are you going to stay in that freaking ‘buzz kill’ mood

all evening, Lindsey?” “I’m fine,” I lied, taking another long sip of my drink. “Look,” she said, waving her index fever back and forth in front of me. “Dude obviously is clueless as to how to be a boyfriend. So teach him.” “Yeah, right,” I laughed. “After all, I have so much experience with being a girlfriend, don’t I? Besides, I’m not even sure I could classify him as a boyfriend, Darce.” I had shared with Darcy over our first drink the phone conversation I had heard between Slate and Taz, and the fact that Taz had called me afterwards presuming we would make plans for the evening and our ensuing argument. I

hadn’t mentioned ‘Dirty Diana.’ “Lindsey, you did the right thing. The last thing you want to do is be too available. He needs to understand you will not be taken for granted.” “I’m not trying to play games here, Darcy. I did want to see him, but I had already made plans with you. I’m not going to blow off friends like that. I just felt like Taz should have understood.” “Honey, he’s out of his comfort zone here. Darin told me that Taz doesn’t do relationships. He does women once or twice and then moves on. You may have to accept the fact that you guys aren’t boyfriend/girlfriend material. Maybe being fuck buddies is the best he can

do.” I shrugged. I had considered that possibility as well. “Hey, did you know Taz is a like an 8th degree black belt in Taekwondo?” “No, it’s never come up.” I replied. “Yeah, Darin is testing for his red belt at the academy next month. He sparred with Taz once; for about six seconds,” she said, laughing. “Has Darin ever mentioned a female recruit called either Dee Dee or ‘Dirty Diana’?” “Huh?” “Never mind.” “Oh no, not on your perky ass. Spill what you know about this Dirty Diana.” I rolled my eyes at her. I knew she

wouldn’t let it go. I filled her in on the rest of the conversation I had overheard. “So, do you think Taz spent extra time at the range just to hang with her?” I shrugged my shoulders, downing the rest of my cocktail. “Do you want me to ask Darin if he knows the skank?” “No,” I replied, quickly. “Don’t say a word, Darcy.” “Okay, okay.” “How about we change the subject,” I suggested, waving the server over for another round. “Fine by me.” This was followed by a few moments of silence as I racked my brain,

trying to come up with something not involving Taz. Darcy was sipping the last of her drink before the next one arrived. “Oh, guess what? I saw Slate’s junk today when I walked in on him peeing.” Darcy spit out her drink, splattering me in the process. “Damn, Darcy,” I said, grabbing a cocktail napkin to pat my neck and chin dry of the droplets. “You are just now telling me this?” she asked, her eyes wide. “I just remembered it,” I replied, snickering. “So?” “So what?” I asked. “I accidently walked in to the bathroom from the

nursery. He was taking a whiz. It was all out there for me to see.” “Oh, my God,” she said, chuckling. “Well, was it impressive?” “Impressive?” “Stop playing dumb, Linds. Are you jealous of your mom?” “To be perfectly honest, Darce, I would say my mother is blessed.” “Yeah?” she replied, giggling like a teenager. “Yep, however, I’m not jealous. I’ve been blessed more,” I replied, laughing with her. “At least I was,” I added, frowning. “Oh, stop,” she chided. “I bet he’ll be stalking your ass before the night is

over.” “I don’t think so,” I replied, taking my fresh drink from the server. “Taz made it perfectly clear he doesn’t do the ‘alpha male’ thing. He doesn’t waste his time chasing high maintenance chicks around,” I replied, trying my best to imitate Taz’s voice. “H e did not refer to you as high maintenance for Chrissake, did he?” “Pretty much.” “Damn, if he thinks you are high maintenance I guess he would find me off the fucking charts.” “No lie there,” I replied with a smile. “Cheers.” We toasted each other as the band

started warming up for their next set. I was not hammered yet and I wanted to be. My mood was somehow affecting my ability to get drunk. I was considering ordering a shot of Patron, when I felt Darcy kick me underneath the table. “Don’t look now,” she whispered loudly. “It seems your non-alpha man has had a change of heart about chasing your high-maintenance ass, after all." She started giggling then turned her attention to the stage. I felt him come up behind me. I felt his hand on my shoulder. I turned and looked up to see his green eyes on me. I couldn’t read his mood.

“Taz?” That was all I could manage. “Come on, Lindsey, time to leave.” “I’m here with Darcy, Taz. I’m sleeping over at her house tonight so I don’t need a ride home thank you very much.” “I’m not here to give you a ride home. I’m here to take you to my place. Your sleepover plans have changed. You’re sleeping me with tonight.” There was that familiar surge of butterflies in my stomach again. They were roused from their dormancy by that simple statement. Darcy looked around as if she had been unaware of Taz being here.

“Hey, Taz,” she greeted him with a smile. “Darcy,” he nodded. “Lindsey is coming home with me. Will you be alright?” “Oh sure, no problem. Sonya is joining me in a minute. You two have a nice evening.” I threw her a look but she was oblivious to it, turning her attention once again to the band. I felt Taz’s arm around my shoulders as he walked me from the bar to the street where his Corvette was parked. He opened the car door and I climbed in. The alcohol was finally kicking in, giving me the urge to giggle at his

fucking denial that he was alpha. He got in and we took off in silence. “Taz,” I said sweetly, “I thought you didn’t do the whole ‘alpha control freak’ thing?” He glanced over me with a halfsmile. “Hush, Lindsey, okay? I’m trying to figure it out myself.” “So, then what are we doing?” “We’re going to my place. We’re sleeping together. I thought I explained that to you in the club.” “I’m still on my period, Taz.” “I didn’t say we were going to fuck. I said we were going to sleep together. I want you next to me tonight. Do you have a problem with that?”

“I guess not.” “Good.” “Taz?” “Yeah?” “Have you ever done Dirty Diana?” “Fuck no. Why would you ask me a question like that and how is it you came up with her name at all?” “I was there when Slate was talking to you on the phone earlier.” “He was just fucking with me, Lindsey. It’s what we do.” “Why did you spend so much time at the range then?” He looked over at me rolling his eyes. “Trust me; it had nothing to do with

Dee Dee. I had to line some things up for Baltimore. I stuck around longer than I planned in order to do that. I do apologize for not getting in touch with you sooner. I’ll try and work on that, okay? Just be patient with me.” “So, you haven’t been involved with Dirty Diana or any other woman since we’ve, uh, since...” “I have not touched another woman since you and I made love for the first time.” OMG! He didn’t call it fucking. My heart was in a true flutter now. I relaxed and sighed. Taz mistook it for me doubting him. “Lindsey, I have no reason to lie to you about that. You must realize that it

was a first for me, as well.” Huh? “A first?” I questioned, clearly puzzled. “I have never had sex without using a condom. I’ve never insisted anyone that I am physically involved with get on the pill so that I could continue riding bareback.” “Are you saying we’re exclusive?” “How long does it take for you to get with the program, girl?” “So, then are you saying we are boyfriend and girlfriend?” “Lindsey, can we not dissect all of this right now?” We rode in silence for a few minutes

while I not only dissected it in my “slow-in-getting-with-the-program mind,” but digested it as well. “Taz?” “Yeah, baby girl?” “I’m really in the mood to suck you off.”

CHAPTER 32 (Taz) I woke up before Lindsey. I marveled at how well we fit together. She was molded perfectly against me, my arms wrapped around her petite frame. Her back was to my chest, her rump to my groin. Damn! She was only 5 feet 4 inches but we fit together like puzzle pieces when we snuggled together. I lightly brushed her unruly, bed head hair. Hell, I was to blame for her new ‘do.’ My hands had done a job on it. She had knelt at my feet last night,

unzipping my jeans and wasting no time in pulling me out and making my toes curl with her sexy mouth. She knew what she was doing and read my signals perfectly. The girl could swallow, too. I smiled behind her, thinking how about much I liked the way she could hold her own with me. That was new. Most of the chicks I had ‘dated’ and I used that word loosely because our ‘dates’ were invariably held either between the four walls of my bedroom or the four walls of theirs, were all about doing things my way. I decided when, where, how, and how many. They were only too happy to oblige. Lindsey was her own person. I

respected her for that even though she fucking drove me to distraction most of the time. It was a good distraction though. It kept me coming back for more. She was sleeping in my FBI issued hoodie. She had looked so sexy last night coming out of the bathroom in her panties with my hoodie on. It had been hanging on the hook of the bathroom door. She had caught my look of surprise. “I don’t have anything to sleep in Taz, is this okay?” “No problem, baby girl,” I had told her, moving towards her. I had captured her hair in my hands, cupping her face and bringing my lips down on her sweet ones. I could taste

them now. We had quickly made a beeline for the bedroom where I had enjoyed two mind-boggling blow jobs within a twohour period. We had both crawled under the sheets, kissing and then falling asleep. I hated that I couldn’t make love to her before I left for Baltimore. Hell, if things were delayed there it could very possibly mean she’d be on her menstrual period again by the time I got back. This damn bust better go down without a hitch. She had mentioned Dirty Diana to me last night. Slate was going to hear about that shit regardless of his rank

over me. I was going to come clean with him about Lindsey and me, too. There was no reason for us to sneak around now that it had been established we were more than fuck buddies. I felt her stir beneath my arms, her legs stretching under the sheets. I lowered my lips to the back of her neck, lifting her hair to plant soft, butterfly kisses on her smooth skin. I felt her shiver against me. “Hey, baby girl,” I said against her skin. “Hey, Taz,” she replied, pulling my hand to her lips. “Can we stay in bed like this all day?’ I groaned, pulling her closer. “I wish we could babe,” but I think I’m going to

have to get up and get you going. It’s almost ten o’clock.” “What? Oh shit,” she said, pulling away and launching her body out of the bed. “Hey, hey,” I said, “why the hurry? I thought we would at least have breakfast together.” “I’d love to, baby,” she said, “but I planned on getting home around nine.” “Slate’s there,” I persisted. “Besides that, aren’t you a little old for a curfew?” “Sweats,” she mumbled, looking around. “What?” “I need a pair of your sweats, Taz.

I’m not putting my dress back on and traipsing in the house like that. I left my overnight bag in Darcy’s car. I need sweats.” “Hold on,” I said, feeling grumpy that she was going to blow out of here so quickly. I pulled a pair of clean sweats from my drawer. They were going to be humongous on her. She tied the drawstring tight and rolled the cuffs up on the bottom. “Oh shit,” she said, sitting back down on the bed. “Déjà vu all over again.” “What do you mean?” She slipped her high heels on and looked over at me with a quirky smile.

“Don’t you remember the first night I stayed here and had puked all over my bridesmaid gown? I went home in a pair of your sweats with high heels on.” “Yeah,” I nodded. “You know, I never did get those back.” She shrugged. “I’m sure they went through the laundry and Slate is wearing them now. You’re both around the same size in most places.” I looked over at her and she had a shit-eating grin going on. “What’s that supposed to mean? Are you saying I have a gut or something?” I leaned into her and started tickling her tummy.

“No,” she laughed. “I’m talking about something south of that.” “What?” “I accidently walked in on Slate in the bathroom yesterday. I saw his private parts.” “Oh, so now you’re calling it ‘private parts,’ Ms. Prissy?” “On him, that is what I call it; on you, it is something else entirely.” “Yeah, yeah rub it in,” I said, swatting her on the butt. “Back in the day, I heard various women in Slate’s old harem bragging about how well he was hung.” “Trust me,” she said, giving me a sexy wink, “Slate doesn’t measure up to

you, Taz. Close, but no cigar.” “You little shit,” I said, laughing and tackling her on the bed. “You shouldn’t have been looking at his junk.” “Hello! I didn’t do it on purpose.” She was on her back now, her hair all spread out around her. I hovered over her, lowering my lips to hers and fisting my hand in her hair. She laced her arms around my neck, clinging against me with her softness. We kissed gently. “I’m going to miss you, baby girl.” “I’m going to miss you, Trace.” It was strange hearing her call me by anything other than ‘Taz.’ I liked the sound of my given name on her lips. She sat back up and I immediately pulled her into my lap, stroking her hair.

“Stay and have breakfast with me then.” “Ohh,” she moaned softly. “I would if I could, but I have an assignment due for Physics class that I have totally blown off and I have to have it done today.” “It’s not like you have someone breathing down your neck like a professor.” “Taz, I have to submit it for my grade by five o’clock. I’m really struggling. I set up a “face-time” with my study buddy at two o’clock so he can help me with some of the formula interpretations before I submit it.” “Who in the hell is your study

buddy?” I saw her hesitation and I knew immediately who it was. I wanted to hear it from her. “It’s Kyzer,” she replied, pulling herself up and off of my lap. “Lindsey. What the fuck? Haven’t I told you to steer clear of him?” She walked over to the chair in my bedroom, gathering up her purse and jacket. “It’s not like we’re going to be in the same room, Taz. We’re a hundred and forty miles apart. Come on. He’s the best in the class and he offered.” “Oh, I’m sure he did,” I ranted. “So, there is no one else you could have approached?”

“Not really,” she replied. “If you recall, the semester had barely started. Kyzer is the only one I know and he is the bomb when it comes to science stuff.” Yeah, if she only knew. “I don’t know, Lindsey,” I continued. “I don’t think it’s a good idea.” “Taz, I don’t need your permission to have a study buddy, even if it is Kyzer. There is no proof that he is anything but what he appears to be. Do you know something I don’t?” I couldn’t say shit to her about what I knew because nothing was conclusive yet. I could only tell her what my instincts knew for sure.

“I just feel as if he cannot and should not be trusted, Lindsey. There are too many coincidences.” “Taz, you’re trained to suspect everyone until you weed out evidence, right?” “More or less, but Lindsey--” “But Lindsey, nothing,” she interrupted, coming over to the side of the bed and settling back down into my lap. “I really think my G-Man is being swayed by testosterone in this case. But I promise I will have no contact with him other than electronically and for study purposes only. Okay?” I nodded, still not feeling good about. Hell, I had always done well in

Physics. I wished like the devil we could postpone this deal for one day and I would fucking stay here and help her with the damn formulas. “Just see that you do. I don’t want you answering any questions he asks not related directly to the subject matter, okay?” “I promise, Taz,” she replied, kissing the tip of my nose. “Now, will you please drive me home?” I did so reluctantly. I wasn’t ready to part with her yet. I didn’t like the thought of a one or two week absence from her. This was definitely a first. Luckily, I had hard-wired the GPS tracker in her car when we had arrived back in Falls Church, not that I intended

to use it for “stalking” purposes. It did provide some peace of mind, though. “Do you want me to drop you off a little ways from your house?” I asked her, trying to be considerate, in light of the situation. I fully intended to be the one to let Slate know the score. “Gee, Taz,” she replied, getting an impish grin on her face, “I could’ve just called my pimp from your house and had him meet me on the corner to drive me home.” She was such a smart-ass at times, but funny as hell. That was sexy. “Gosh, do you think Daddy Slate is going to ground me?” she asked, batting her eyes at me.

I pulled my car into the driveway, pulling her over to me. “Smart ass,” I whispered against her sweet mouth. “Be good, okay?” “I will, Taz. I want you be careful, okay?” “Always am,” I said, giving her a final kiss. “I’ll be in touch when I can.”

CHAPTER 33 I practically stumbled through the front door, one of my heels catching on the rolled up cuff of the still too long sweats. I could hear Slate and Bryce in the kitchen. For once, luck was on my side as I crept on up the stairs and hit the shower. I hated washing Taz’s scent off of me, but knowing Slate and his wellhoned senses, he would pick up on it. I preferred letting Taz handle the PR on our relationship. I dressed in a pair of my own sweats and went back downstairs to check out the situation with Slate and Bryce. It was

all good. I peeked in on Mom and she was dozing off again. The pain meds she was still taking seemed to knock her out. I told Slate I would be upstairs starting my Physics assignment. He said he was good to hang with Bryce for a while and to take all the time I needed. I started my lesson plan hoping I could make some progress before Kyzer and me face-timed on our iPads. The content we were studying was magnetic fields. My eyes glazed over ten minutes into it. At two o’clock sharp, my iPad chimed with his incoming call. “Hey, Lindsey,” he greeted warmly.

“How’s it going?” “Not well,” I admitted, “I’m really struggling with all this stuff about charges moving parallel versus perpendicular to the magnetic fields.” For the next hour, Kyzer went over the study material with me. He was really great at showing examples of how the same concepts we studied in electric fields with the exception that all magnetic fields have both a north pole and a south pole, equal in strength. His visual examples helped with my understanding the concepts. As we wound up the conversation, I felt more confident that I could get through the rest of the material and submit my assignment for a passing

grade. “Thank you so much, Kyzer. I was actually considering dropping this class.” “I am happy to help, Lindsey. How is everything else going there? Is your mother feeling any better?” I remembered Taz cautioning me on sharing info so I made it as general as possible. “She is resting well, so hopefully I’ll be back on campus in the near future.” “That’s great,” he said earnestly. “I wish I could say the same thing about my father. He seems to be slipping away more every day.” “Oh, Kyzer, I am sorry. That must be

tough.” “My stepmother has moved him to a facility in Atlanta. She had to assume the responsibility of managing the operations at the research and development facility he opened there a few years back. She wanted him close. They have a condo there, but he’s at the point where he needs around-the-clock care.” I really felt for him. He had lost his mother at such a young age and now his dad who wasn’t all that old. He had told me before he was an only child. “If there is anything I can do, Kyzer, please let me know?” I regretted the words as soon as they were out of my mouth. I knew Taz would

be shaking his head and bitching at me if he knew I had said that. Still, Kyzer had never been anything but kind and caring, where I was concerned. Taz was only passing judgment based on his instincts or so he said. I still thought it was a ‘male’ thing. “Thanks Lindsey, having someone to talk to helps more than you know. I guess I just need someone to listen.” Listening wasn’t dangerous. Listening wasn’t too much for him to ask. I could do listening. “Anytime,” I replied. “Whenever you need to talk about this, call me. I’m here.” “Thank you, Lindsey. Good luck

with your assignment. Let me know when you want to do another study together.” “Will do, Kyzer.” We signed off and I finished the unit assignment and uploaded it to the website. I was lying across my bed taking a breather. I heard my phone beep next to me. I picked it up seeing I had a text message. It was from Taz. I smiled. ‘R u still studying with Poindexter?’ I immediately texted him back I had finished and was considering taking a short ‘power nap.’ ‘I have a better idea.’ He responded

in his next text. ‘Do tell?’ I responded. For the next twenty minutes Taz and I had some steamy “sexting” going on. I was amazed at the sweet little orgasm it generated. Now I really did need a nap.

CHAPTER 34 (Taz) Slate and I were on our way to Baltimore just a little after 6:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. Both of our asses seemed to be dragging for similar reasons. We discussed our schedule for the day. We were both picking up separate vehicles in Columbia less than an hour south of Baltimore. As usual, I got to drive the old beater, while Slate was posing as a rich, big-shot who wanted in on a sweet deal that Hatfield had been working on with his longshoreman buddies on the dock.

I was picking up Dee Dee in Columbia, she came with the beater. “Looks like you’re already dressed for the part, Taz,” Slate said, eyeing my tattered plaid flannel work shirt. I had put on a pair of worn out, mustard yellow Carhart work pants. The knees were nearly worn clear through. “Don’t worry,” I said, “I’ve got more clothing like this packed away in my duffel. If Dee Dee and I are going to be bar hopping around the docks the next couple of nights, I’ve got to look the part.” Slate smiled, shaking his head. “I think the clothing is a tactical move on your part to keep Dirty Diana

off your nuts.” “You know, Slate, one of these days somebody is going to slip and call Dee Dee that to her face and she is not going to appreciate it.” “Since when have you become all politically correct, Taz?” He looked over at me from behind the wheel of his truck. He was studying me. “I’ve never had anything going with Dee Dee,” I said. “I just don’t appreciate the innuendos. What she chooses to do with the other guys in the bureau is her business. I just don’t want to be associated with any of it.” “What in the hell is up your ass?” “I’ll tell you what’s up my ass, man.

That comment you made to me on the phone the other day about my staying late at the shooting range because of her, calling me a horny bastard like that in front of Lindsey.” “What the....” and I watched as the realization sunk in and Slate got with the program. “Taz, tell me that you’re not sleeping with my wife’s daughter, please?” I didn’t say a word. I turned my head and gazed out of the passenger window. “Fuck! Jesus Christ!” I had a feeling Slate wasn’t happy about this. “I fucking knew it,” he said, slapping his hand against the steering wheel. “I

knew it that morning she came in looking all upset and disheveled. I told you then how I felt about it, Taz. So, it’s been going on all of this time? You’ve been fucking her since last Thanksgiving?” “No,” I snapped, looking back over at him. “We got together at Christmas. In case you don’t know, Lindsey is an adult, and I’d like to know why the fuck my best friend is so pissed and offended that she and I are seeing one another.” “Because,” he halfway snarled, “her mother is going to be upset about it and if she’s upset then I get upset.” “Oh, it’s like that, huh? So Sammie doesn’t like me? Is that it?” “No, Taz. That is not it. Sammie thinks you’re great; just not with her

daughter.” I looked over at him, cocking an eyebrow. “Look,” he said, “it’s just because she knows Lindsey is young and so inexperienced. I mean for Chrissake, up until Christmas she was a freaking virgin. Sammie still thinks she is.” “It’s not what you think,” I said to him. “How do you know what I think?” “Because you’re upset, man. This thing between Lindsey and me is not just sexual, Slate. We care about each other. I can’t think Sammie would have a problem with that.” He rubbed his hand across his

forehead. “For now, can we agree that we keep Sammie out of the loop? I don’t want her stressed about anything.” “Fine, no problem.” Slate and I picked up vehicles in Columbia. Dee Dee and I had a room at some flea bag hotel near the docks. She was filing her nails, cracking her chewing gum on the ride into Baltimore. “So, Taz,” she said, blowing nail dust off of her fingertips and gazing over at me all wide-eyed. “That was some sweet shooting you did at the range last week. Expecting you might need to use your Glock this trek?” “Never know, Dee Dee,” I replied. “I hope not.”

“You know what’s crazy?” she asked. “What?” “Outta all the guys in the bureau, you’re like the only one that doesn’t call me Dirty Diana. I like that.” I turned abruptly to look over at her. She had a smirk on her face. “For Chrissake, Taz,” she said with her faux Brooklyn accent. “What type of a freaking agent would I be if my head was that far up my ass? I’ve known for a while about the nickname assigned to me.” “So, it doesn’t bother you?” I asked her. She shrugged her shoulders.

“The only thing that bothers me, Agent Matthews, is that you could screw every female recruit on base or every female cadet at the FBI academy, and the only thing they’re going call you is a stud. For chicks, things haven’t changed too much over the past say, seventy years, in that respect.” “Why the tag ‘dirty’, I’m curious?” She smiled, popping her gum. “It’s got nothin’ to do with hygiene if that’s what’s got you worried,” she replied, giving me a flirty wink. “It’s because I play dirty; in the field and in the bed. You interested in finding out just how down and dirty I can get, Agent Matthews?” She followed that up with a

wicked, little laugh. “I’ll pass,” I replied. “Well, that’s a new one,” she said, laughing again. “From what I heard about you, your prowess is legend, right up there with Slater’s.” “Is that right? Well, let’s just say I’ve been domesticated for now.” “Such a shame,” she replied, shaking her head. “I was looking forward to carving another notch in my bedpost for you.” I almost believed she thrived on the hype she was getting. Maybe she had a point though. It wasn’t as if I had screwed every chick at Quantico, but if I had, there would have been plenty of pats on the back and zero negative press.

I guess maybe it did suck to be a chick in certain situations. “So,” she said, changing the subject, “when are we meeting with Hatfield and Simmons for the update?” “They will be stopping by our hotel after their shift tonight to confirm status on the customs clearance of the cargo. Once it has cleared, hopefully by tomorrow, the cargo will be unloaded tomorrow night.” “Then my part is done, right?” “Yep,” I answered, feeling almost envious that she would get to return to D.C. while Slate, Hatfield, Simmons and me went on to Philly. “See, there it is again,” she

commented, shaking her head. “There what is?” “I’m pulled into this operation because I’m a female, but my only purpose is to cause a distraction for the rest of you boys, so that you can set up for the kill.” “Yeah, so?” “So, when the fun starts, girlie gets sent home. The boys get to have all the fun with collaring these slime-ball perps, maybe even getting to draw their weapons and use them. It’s still a man’s world, Taz.” She was shaking her head as if thoroughly disgusted. I usually felt that adrenaline rush by now that she was jonesing to feel; not

this time. It had nothing to do with being pussy-whipped either. Uneasiness had settled over me when we left D.C. and it hadn’t let up one bit. “You know what, Dee Dee? If you wanted day-to-day action like that then why didn’t you join some big city police force? Maybe then, you would see enough daily action to assuage your need to live on the edge.” “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?” “It means that we are the peeps that get called in on “big time” shit. Sometimes it’s all action, other times its’ hunkering down and waiting for the best opportunity or getting into the minds

of the bad guys. I have to tell you this, none of the other agents, whether male or female, that I have served with have ever made it all about gender or all about pulling their guns. If I didn’t know better, I’d say maybe you are afraid of having to pull your weapon. Is that it?” She flounced around in her seat as if she was pouting. I had hit a nerve, I could see that. “Oh, yeah, I get it now," she turned back giving me a plastered smile. “Yeah, Hatfield told me you were all about going in the BAU. You are a wannabe shrink, am I right?” I smiled back at her, feeling some sense of achievement that I had pushed her button so easily. It was a win for me.

I had my doubts as to whether it was a win for the bureau. Who the fuck had cleared her for this detail? “I’m no shrink, Diana. I’m just observant. You need to keep it together during this detail. I’m your superior officer right now, and I’m telling you, once this goes down, you better be listening to everything I tell you.” “I know my place, Agent Matthews,” she said with a sulk. “Don’t worry.” “It’s Special Agent Matthews, Diana. The first order of business is for you to acknowledge and respect your superiors.” She was squirming ready to spout off. I could only think the fact that she

had a reputation for giving mind boggling blow jobs to some of the higher-ups had given her some sense of entitlement to disregard protocol. So much for her argument for gender equality; no male agent or cadet would have made the blunder she was making right now. “I hear you, S p e c i a l Agent Matthews,” she retorted stiffly. We reached our flea bag hotel and checked in without incident. Slate found a way to come by later, dressed in the garb of a homeless guy. I had to admit, Slate was pretty damn good at that part of it, though I knew I was better. Hatfield met us later and filled us in. The goods had cleared customs for

dispatch via over-the-road transport. All things were in schedule for tomorrow night. Diana and I were to make sure we made our presence known at the Anchors Aweigh bar that was just a half block from the loading docks. We were to cause a bit of a domestic scene, with her getting pissed and walking out. The truck driver that always drove the cargo to Philly always stopped and had a cold one at that bar before he started his journey. Diana was to make sure she came on to him causing the argument between the two of us as if we were a couple. Oh God. We had just finished our debriefing,

when Slate called me aside. “I got a call from the lab,” he said. “They lifted prints from the key and the baggie you brought in.” “And?” “They lifted two sets of prints on the key.” “Two?” “Yep.” Okay, why was Slate being so weird about this? “Whose prints?” I asked. “Jack’s,” he said quickly. There was a pause and I waited. “And Samantha’s,” he answered.

CHAPTER 35 (TAZ) It was nearly 10:30 p.m. Diana and I had been hanging at the Anchors Aweigh for a couple of hours. She had dressed the part wearing a tight, short, jean skirt with fishnet stockings and high-heeled boots. She had a short cropped leather jacket on and tons of make-up. She had some nice legs going on. I wasn’t going to lie about that. Of course, they didn’t hold a candle to Lindsey’s legs even though Diana was tall, about 5’10”. We had acted like we were well into our suds when we got to the bar so we

could minimize the amount of alcohol we consumed there so as to avoid getting shit-faced. I spotted the truck driver from the pictures Hatfield and Simmons had provided. I nudged Diana with my knee, she spun her barstool around and nodded that he was in her line of vision. He took a seat at the end of the bar near the jukebox. She took a swig of her beer and made a sexy little prance over to the jukebox, leaning over to make her selections. This provided anyone behind her a nice view of her ass, and for the truck driver at the end of the bar, he wasted no time in noticing.

She took her time, pressing her selections. She rolled her hips to the music that was already playing, snapping her fingers to keep his attention. As she turned to head back, she did a little trip, allowing herself to brush against him. She of course apologized to him, giving him a sexy smile. He was taking the bait. Good. I let her sit there next to him, working her seductive magic for a few minutes. I finally got up and sauntered over to where she was sitting, leaning over whispering to him drunkenly, giving him a show of her ample tits. “Rhonda, what the fuck?” They both looked up at me. She got a

saucy little grin on her face, rubbing the palm of her hand against his bicep. “Oh, keep your zipper up,” she said. “I’m just enjoying some interesting conversation here with Bill. You got a problem with that, Gary?” “You’re drunk, Rhonda. I’m taking you home.” “I ain’t going nowhere with you, Gary. I’m sick of this shit. You ain’t my husband after all,” she slurred, turning her attention back to Bill. I grabbed a hold of her wrist, pulling her towards me. Bill shoved my wrist away and I acted like a wounded pussy. “Watch the way you touch the lady,” Bill said, giving me the evil eye. “Are you alright, honey?” he asked, turning his

attention fully to her. She looked behind him at me and I gave her a quick nod. She turned the tears on telling Bill what an awful fuck I was to her, bitching and shoving her around all the time. He leaned in to comfort her giving me a chance to toss the small, self-dissolving ampoule into his tall glass of draft beer. I needed a few moments for the a mp o ul e to fully dissolve with a substance that was going to render poor Bill totally nauseous within five minutes after drinking it. I stuck my finger in her face. “You know what Rhonda?” I said quietly, but firmly. I didn’t want to draw attention from the other patrons. “You

are absolutely right, we aren’t married. I guess I am the royal shit you say I am. I’ve had it. It’s not fucking worth it to me. You, Bill - is that your name?” He was watching me. He nodded his head affirmatively. “Bill, can you see that she gets home? I’ve had enough of her for one lifetime.” “Uh, well,” he stammered, looking over at her tear-stained cheeks. “You see the thing is Rhonda, I go on the clock in about twenty minutes over at the loading dock.” “Please don’t make me leave with that bastard,” she sobbed quietly. “I only live five minutes’ drive from here, but it’s just not safe in this

neighborhood for me to be walking. It sure as hell isn’t safe for me to get into the car with him,” she spat, pointing her finger at me. “Okay, sweetie-pie,” he said. “Let me down this beer and we’re outta here. I’ll drop you before I go on the clock.” “Thanks, Bill,” she crooned, as he turned and gulped down his beer. “Lots of luck, Bill,” I spat walking out the door. Perfect execution of task at hand. Yes! I hoofed it over to the line of shrubbery on the empty lot next to the well-lit dock and waited. There was only one longshoreman that was in the on

the deal, not knowing that Hatfield and Simmons were feds. That was sweet. Hatfield had been making this trek to Philly with Bill once a month for the past four months. He had his CDL issued under his undercover name of “Jeremy Haskell.” He and Bill took turns driving the goods from Baltimore to Philly and back. No one would notice anything odd about Hatfield, a.k.a. Haskell, pulling the first stint of the run. Come on, come on, Diana. We needed ‘Bill’ to show up in some way shape or form on his shift tonight so that the loaders wouldn’t get suspicious. He was approximately the same height and weight as me. The

clothing would do the rest. Then I saw her with five minutes to spare. She had Bill’s jacket and wallet. I quickly donned the jacket with the name of the OTR freight company with name tag “Bill” sewn on the outside. I shoved his wallet into the pocket of the work pants that exactly matched the one’s Bill had been wearing. I knew they would. I pulled the black knit cap out of the pocket; also a signature “Bill” accessory. As long as I didn’t get too close to the loaders, there was no way they would not think I was Bill. “Where is he?” I asked, pulling the knit cap on to cover my hair. “His car had an unfortunate accident

as he was driving me to my fake apartment. Poor guy hit a hydrant as he was trying to pull over to the curb so he could puke. I lifted his wallet and grabbed his jacket from the back seat. The locals were on it just as soon as I beat the block. We’re good. He’ll be sleeping it off in the Baltimore drunk tank for a while. The locals know not to give him his one phone call until after we give them clearance.” “Good job, Diana,” I said, giving her a slap on the shoulder. “Now, get your ass back to the hotel and sit tight until tomorrow morning, got it?” “Yes, Special Agent Matthews,” she whispered. “Good luck with the rest.” She turned and broke into a jog back

towards the bar and the hotel that was just around the corner. Dee Dee would do all right getting back. She had proven to me that she could hang tough. I walked across the parking lot towards the dock warehouses. I kept my head low and once I neared the dock bay where the truck was parked with the sea carrier’s logo on it. I spotted Hatfield. He gave me a nod, which meant I needed to climb up into the passenger side of the 18wheeler and keep a low profile while they finished up with the shipping documents and signed off on the manifest. I hunkered down, waiting for Slate’s

appearance which should be coming up soon. From the side mirror, I saw the headlights of the Lexis SUV he had been issued. Fucker had all the luck. He had even been given a fucking driver/bodyguard to make it look like he indulged in shady business deals all of the time. His driver looked like fucking ‘Lurch’ off of the Adams Family. I watched as Agent Simmons and the greedy longshoreman whose name was Calvin met with Slate and his ‘bodyguard’ outside of the Lexus. There was some conversation, followed by the exchange of money. I knew there would be a promise of delivery made by Calvin. The deal was that he had scarfed

some of the liquid cocaine and stepped on it with some other liquid adders so it wouldn’t be missed when the inventory got weighed in at Philly. As soon as Calvin delivered the goods to Slate, he would be arrested. Calvin’s arrest would be small-time compared to the syndicate in Philly. However, Agent Simmons had picked up some bonus Intel from Calvin that had piqued the interest of the bureau chief. Calvin had mentioned to Agent Simmons that there was a lot more money to be made with unrelated shipments coming in of some powdery shit that he claimed to be pure, organic, amphetamine.

I watched out of the truck’s front windshield. Slate’s ‘deal’ went down without a hitch. Within several minutes, Hatfield climbed up into the driver’s side of the cab of the truck. “Hey Bill, how in the fuck are you tonight?” I saw him give me a wink. “Not really feeling like myself, Jeremy,” I replied with a smirk. “Let’s hit the road to Philly.” Hatfield and I discussed the new information that Calvin had shared with Slate on the organic amphetamine deal. Apparently, he had ties with a U.S. Customs agent in Baltimore who was dirty. That type of thing tended to piss me off royally.

The agent was going to be making some major bucks to clear imports of green coffee bean extract coming in with some barrels mixed in containing something else altogether. It was an illegal substance used for making potent amphetamines. The first shipment was due in to the Port of Baltimore within the next few days. Calvin had asked Slate if wanted a piece of it. Apparently the consignee was looking for a distribution network since this was a new start-up, and it took someone with start-up capital to buy in. Calvin thought it would be a perfect fit for Slate. He was about to find out just how wrong he was.

“So, anyway, Slate will be meeting us in Philly in the morning with the federal warrants for the bust. I’m pumped, Taz,” Hatfield, said, interrupting my thoughts. “Just keep this rig on the road, Hatfield.” “Hey, my CDL license is for real, Taz. No worries. Sit back and snooze. I’ve got everything under control.” Hatfield’s enthusiasm had only tugged me away from my thoughts momentarily. I was sure Slate would get more details once Calvin was arrested and he shit himself. That tended to make “rookie” criminals roll over on anybody and everyone. The corrupt U.S. Customs

agent would probably fill in the rest of the gaps when he was popped. The federal prosecutor was pretty good at negotiating with small time criminals to land the more significant p e r p s . More than likely, the agent involved would roll over in a heartbeat when it came down to whether he would have to spend twenty years versus forty years in a federal prison. “I think I will get a little shut-eye, Hatfield,” I said, leaning back against the fairly comfortable seat. “Wake me when we get to Philly.” “No problem, Taz.”

CHAPTER 36 We were on day three of Slate (and Taz) being gone. Bryce kept me so busy the days had gone by quickly, but for Mom, I could see that not having Slate nearby made her kind of mope around. I would spend a couple of hours a day with her when Bryce was napping so she didn’t feel so lonely. We would watch a program together or play cards. I had made a little play area in the master suite for Bryce so that he could play in there during the day. He kept her entertained. The two-hour reprieve I got every evening was my time to run errands,

shop, or simply take a drive to get out of the house. The home health care nurse’s name was Donna and she was a godsend. She got along great with Mom and Bryce. She arrived around 5:30 p.m. and stayed until 7:30 p.m. daily. She always told me if I needed her to stay later, it was no problem. Mom got a call from Slate every day. I had only heard from Taz once in three days. When I hinted that Slate called Mom daily, he apologized for not realizing how high maintenance I was. I had called him a “smart-ass” and he had laughed that beautiful, sexy laugh of his. Of course, he wanted to make sure

that I had taken steps to get on the pill. I told him that I had an appointment scheduled with my doctor the following day. He was pleased. He said that everything had gone as planned but they were sticking around Baltimore for another day or two for other reasons. That was the extent of the detail he provided, which really told me nothing. He asked if I had talked to Kyzer lately, but the truth was I hadn’t and told him as much. He seemed relieved even though I couldn’t see his face, I could still read Taz. Taz told me he missed me before we hung up which caused my butterflies to surge, and that he would call me when

he could. I told him I missed him as well. I could feel his smile over the phone. God, I hope I’m not falling in love. The following day was my appointment with the doctor. Donna agreed to come by at 4:00 p.m. because my appointment was at 4:30 p.m. Everything went well at the doctor’s visit. He gave me a starter packet of pills that I was to start immediately, and then a prescription with refills. He instructed me to use alternate protection for the first two weeks after starting them. Once I got home, Donna told me she could stick around longer if I needed

some study time. Bryce had napped longer than usual this afternoon, and was still going strong. I took her up on the offer, going upstairs to shower and study for a while. The online classes were definitely more challenging than taking them on-campus with the luxury of real, live teachers. I picked up my phone and called Kyzer. My call went straight to voicemail. It was strange I hadn’t heard from him for several days. Perhaps he was cultivating a new relationship; couldn’t blame the guy for that. I ended up studying for two hours before realizing that Donna had stayed way over. I went downstairs and she was watching television in the family

room. “Donna, I’m so sorry,” I apologized. “I didn’t realize how late it had gotten.” “Lindsey, it’s not a problem. You need more time for yourself with school and all. I really don’t mind, okay?” “Thanks,” I said, smiling. “So, I take it Bryce is down for the night?” “Yep,” she said, getting her jacket on, “and your mom has had her medication and is sleeping as well. I’ll see you tomorrow.” “Thanks, again,” I said, closing the door after her and locking it. I felt lonely. There was no one to talk to, I missed Taz. I went upstairs and pulled my tee shirt off, pulling Taz’s

‘FBI’ hoodie on. It still smelled like him. That offered some comfort. I climbed into bed and relaxed finally drifting off to sleep. The following morning I awoke before Bryce and peeked in on Mom. She was awake and her iPad was perched on her stomach. I presumed she was reading one of her downloaded books. “Morning,” I said, going into her room. She looked up, a bright smile lighting up her face. “That must be a good book,” I replied, nodding towards her iPad. “Oh, I wasn’t reading my book,” she said. “I was checking my emails. Slate will be home today.”

Really? “Oh, yeah? He emails you when he’s on assignment?” “Only when it’s finished and he can.” Perhaps I had an email waiting for me. I went into the kitchen and grabbed my cell phone, logging on to see if I had any emails come in on my Yahoo account. There was nothing at all from Taz. I made some breakfast for Mom, taking it in on the bed tray she used. “So, what time are you expecting him in?” I asked her, fluffing a pillow. She took a sip of her orange juice.

“He said he’d be in Quantico by noon, then home by mid-afternoon. He needs to discuss a key or something with me.” The key from Robespierre? “So, that means the assignment is concluded then. I suppose Taz will be with him, huh?” She looked up at me with a puzzled look on her face. She couldn’t figure out why I would ask about Taz. Her eyes lowered to the ‘FBI’ hoodie I was still wearing and her look of puzzlement changed to one of suspicion. “That isn’t one of Slate’s hoodies,” she stated. “He only wears the tee shirts.”

I am detecting a slightly accusatory tone here. I looked down, my fingers plucking a piece of imaginary lint from the front. “No, I borrowed it from Taz,” I replied, looking back up at her. Her expression has now morphed to confusion. “Why would you borrow a hoodie from Taz?” Ahh, geez. “Because I needed something to wear to bed.” There, I had said it. The secret was out and I was relieved. “Lindsey, no,” she said in a loud whisper, looking practically horrified.

“Mom, Taz and I have gotten close. It’s a caring relationship.” “On your part, I’m sure,” she said, “but honey, Taz is not boyfriend material. The stories I’ve heard from Eric will confirm that.” It was odd the way my mother i nte r c ha nge d “Eric” with “Slate” depending upon the nature of the conversation. I figured the nature of this conversation was extremely serious in her opinion. “So, I take it you’re no longer. Uhm......” Don’t say it, Mom. Please don’t say it. “A virgin?”

Damn! She said it. “That’s correct, Mom.” My cheeks were flushing, I could tell. Why was this so uncomfortable? I never got why mothers and daughters couldn’t simply be open about sexual things? My mother had done her part in explaining the facts of life to me, there’d even been an illustrated book that was age appropriate when we had “the talk.” Afterwards, she had asked me if I had any questions. Of course, I didn’t, but I would and did later. I had never gone to her with them. I got my information the same way as my friends got theirs: Cosmo magazine and

the internet. “Lindsey, I don’t know what to say, honey. I know you’re an adult and can make your own choices and decisions, but somehow I think this might be one you’ll regret.” “Why do you say that, Mom?” “First of all, there is a substantial age difference, and the fact that you are or were - so inexperienced, might have caused you to feel something you felt you needed to feel because of the physical act.” She was clearly not comfortable in the direct approach. “Let me see if I understand what you’re trying to say, Mom. Taz is older so therefore, he may not be interested in

anything other than a sexual relationship with someone like me? Given the fact that Taz was my first, you suspect any feelings I have for him are a result of the fact that we’ve fucked, and I’ve turned it into a romantic fantasy, is that about right?” “Lindsey,” she said, now clearly upset with me, “that is not what I’m saying. I’m simply suggesting that you examine the facts. I don’t want to see you get hurt.” “Mom,” I replied, sitting on the edge of her bed, “there are no guarantees in any new relationship as to whether someone will be hurt before it’s over. I guess I’m willing to take that risk. I care

about Trace.” “I care about you, Lindsey, and I just don’t see this working out. I’m sorry, I want to be supportive, but I can’t.” Now I was getting pissed at her close-mindedness. It surprised me; after all of the years she had stayed in a clearly loveless and unrewarding marriage, that she would still be judgmental about people, particularly having done her stint as a pole-dancer and having an affair with a biker-boy named Slate. It was really hypocrisy, plain and simple. “You know, Mom, I’m really disappointed in you. How is it that you were able to fall in love with Slate when clearly you have some major snobbery

going on?” “No, just a minute, Lindsey. We are not talking about Eric here, we are talking about Taz. There are major differences.” “I don’t know about that,” I replied. “I see a lot of the same characteristics in them. How can you be so judgmental about Taz, yet with Slate, you think he hung the moon?” “Don’t get me wrong, Lindsey, I like Taz, I really do. He’s Eric’s best friend. He’s a good agent, I trust that he will always have my husband’s back when they’re out in the field, but he isn’t as grounded as Slate. He’s been with a lot of women, honey.”

“You know what, Mom? I think you have selective blinders. Don’t you think Slate went through his share of women, too? I bet for every story Slate has told about Taz, there is one Taz could tell about Slate.” I heard Bryce up in his room. He was whining to get out of his crib. It was good timing because the argument Mom and I were having was going to get ugly if I stuck around. “I need to go get Bryce. I’m sorry that you feel the way you do, Mom, but for now, Taz is in my life so you’ll just have to accept that.” I left the room, feeling bad for arguing with her, but strong in my

resolve that I would manage my relationships without parental interference. If she had done that, perhaps she wouldn’t have wasted nineteen years on a marriage that had been a façade. I bathed, dressed and fed Bryce. I then took him into Mom’s room and asked her if she wanted him to play in there for a while. “That’s fine,” she replied, not looking at me. I got him situated on the floor with his play blanket and toys, telling her I had the intercom on if she needed anything. So, I guess things were going to be a bit strained for a while. It was Saturday, so I phoned Darcy to see if she had made

it home for the weekend. “What’s going on?” she said when she answered. “Nothing. Everything. Are you in D.C. this weekend?” “Absolutely. I was going to give you a call. I have plans with Darin today and tonight, but want to meet for lunch tomorrow afternoon and catch up?” “Sounds great,” I replied. “Slate will be back this afternoon so I get a breather for a while.” “Perfect,” she replied. “Listen, I’m with Darin now, so I’ll call you around noon tomorrow to set up the time and place, okay?” “Yep,” I said. “Talk to you then.”

CHAPTER 37 I could tell by the way Slate looked at me that Taz had filled him in on our relationship. Although, the fact that Taz hadn’t bothered to phone me now that this field operation seemed to be over, had left me wondering if there really was a relationship. I had changed out of his FBI hoodie before Slate arrived home. There was no need to rub salt into the wound, as far as Mom was concerned. We had barely spoken since the argument this morning. Slate hadn’t been in the house for a full ten minutes when he picked up on it. I had just put Bryce down for a nap after

Slate had greeted him, when I heard their voices from the master suite. “So, you knew about this fling then?” she said, not bothering to hide her irritation. “How long were you planning on keeping me in the dark?” “Hey, Sammie, it’s really none of our business, now is it?” “I don’t want to see my daughter hurt or treated like, like one of his whores,” she said, getting emotional. “Sweetie,” Slate said to her, soothingly, “Taz is a good guy. You know I sowed my share of wild oats before I met you, right? It just takes a good woman to see how empty that kind of life can be. Maybe Taz is at the

point.” “And what if he’s not, Eric? I don’t want her hurt.” “Babe, no one goes through life without getting hurt. I can tell you this; Taz is not playing a game with her. He would never do that. So whatever happens with those two happens legitimately and without our interference, okay?” Thank you, Slate! “I didn’t plan on interfering, but I sure as hell don’t have to like it.” “That’s my girl,” he said, placating her. “Now, we need to talk about this key.” I felt weird continuing to eavesdrop. Whatever Slate or the lab had uncovered

on the key didn’t interest me. It had to be about my father and I didn’t want to know the particulars. It hurt too much. I left the nursery and went to the kitchen. I had phoned Donna earlier, letting her know she could take the weekend off since Slate was back. I decided I would busy myself with making something for dinner. I had taken some pork chops out to thaw when Slate came into the kitchen. “Lindsey, the key that was hidden in your stuffed dog had both your mother and father’s prints lifted from it. Your mom thinks it is the key to a metal lockbox that your father kept his personal papers, family bible, and

school memorabilia - things like that in. She thinks it may still be packed upstairs in one of the closets from the move. Would you mind checking? It’s kind of important.” “Sure, no problem,” I replied. “There are a few cardboard boxes and wardrobes that haven’t been unpacked upstairs. That’s where I found Robespierre as a matter of fact.” “It may be nothing,” Slate remarked, “but if we can at least find the box and open it, we’ll know for sure.” I nodded, starting to leave but then stopped to look at Slate. “Thanks for handling it with Mom.” I said to him. “I know she’s not happy about me and Taz.”

“It’ll just take her a little getting used to,” he said, smiling. “Is Taz back yet, Slate?” “No, Lindsey. Taz had to follow some leads on a developing case we came across while we were in Baltimore. I expect he’ll be gone for a couple more days. He’s doing some preliminary investigation on the leads with Hatfield.” “Okay, thanks.” I knew that was all of the information I was going to get from Slate. Taz was not doing very well with the whole keeping- in-touch stuff. I went upstairs and dug through the closet in my room and the one in the

guest room. I actually uncovered two metal lockboxes. One was larger than the other and was labeled, “Jack’s Records.” Both of them were locked. I took the boxes downstairs. Slate must have returned to Mom in the master suite. I wasn’t about to interrupt their time together, so I set the metal boxes on the kitchen counter and continued with dinner preparations. I was peeling potatoes when Slate returned to the kitchen. He spotted the metal boxes on the counter. “Two of them?” “Yep,” I replied, “both are locked so I figured you’d want to see which one your key unlocks.” Slate dug the key out of his pocket

and inserted it into the one that was labeled with my father’s name. I knew that he would try that one first. The key fit. He unlocked the box and opened the lid, letting it fall back on its hinges. “Would you rather go through his things, Lindsey?” I looked up at Slate and I knew he had compassion. It hadn’t felt right having Slate rifle through his things. I nodded. “What am I looking for?” “I haven’t a clue,” he replied, honestly. “Something that doesn’t fit would be my guess.” I emptied the contents of the metal box piece by piece, setting each item on the counter for Slate to see.

There were newspaper clippings from when my dad had played high school sports, blue ribbons from the county fair when he was in 4-H as a kid, his high school diploma, his varsity letter, photos, report cards, his birth certificate, and a leather-bound family bible. Nothing contained in the metal box looked as if it didn’t belong. I looked at Slate and shrugged. “Nothing strikes me as being odd in this stuff,” I commented. I picked the bible up and leafed through it. A piece of paper fell out of it, onto the floor. I picked it up, immediately recognizing the “BP” logo of Banion Pharmaceuticals at the top of

the paper. Slate took it from me scanning it, his brow furrowed in confusion. I knew that it would. “What the fuck is all of this?” I recognized what it was from interning at Banion and dealing with the R & D chemists while there. “It’s some sort of a chemical equation or formula,” I replied, looking at the various symbols and lettering. “I need to find out specifically what type of formula this is. I’m going to scan this and send this to Quantico for interpretation.” I let Slate do his thing with the scanning of the paper and electronically sending it to Quantico with a STAT

request for the results. I was slightly amused that it hadn’t dawned on him that the lab in Quantico wasn’t going to be able to tell him everything he needed to know. When he returned to the kitchen I asked to see the paper again. I looked at the bottom right-hand corner to see the ID stamp on it. There it was. “You know, Slate,” I said, “You may get more information from the chemist who wrote this. There’s his identification stamp down there in the corner.” “It is stamped with a ‘31’,” he observed. “Yep. That’s John Davey’s I.D.

stamp,” I replied. “The chemist we busted at Banion?” “One and the same,” I answered. “You’re very astute, Lindsey. Thanks.” I finished getting dinner ready and took a tray into Mom. Slate had been on the phone with prison officials at Deep Meadow Correctional Center where John Davey was currently incarcerated for his participation manufacturing the unstamped narcotics. He was apparently going to drive there tomorrow to meet with Davey. Mom was awake when I carried her tray in, watching television. She looked up when I set her tray down, I smiled at

her. My smile was not returned. Okay. This is not going well. “Can I get you anything else, Mom?” “Is Bryce awake?” she asked. “I think I’d like to spend some time with my son.” That kinda hurt. “Let me check,” I said, trying not to let the sting of her statement affect me. I went through the bathroom that adjoined both rooms and peeked into the nursery. He was sitting up in bed, playing with the stuffed turtle I had bought him. I went in and changed his diaper, taking him back into the master suite. “There’s my boy,” she cooed to him

sweetly. “Lindsey, will you bring some animal crackers in for him to snack on while I eat my dinner?” “Sure, Mom.” Slate was on yet another phone call when I returned to the kitchen to get the animal crackers. “Are you fucking serious?” Uh oh. “Who posted his bond?” There was a pause as the information was provided. “Holy Fuck, Taz. Do the locals have anything on the shooter?” My ears perked up. “Yeah, that figures. So, an attorney bonds him out, and then he’s dead in less than two hours? Fuck me. Someone

didn’t want him talking, that’s for damn sure.” Who? What? Where? “Yeah, come by as soon as you get back so we can debrief. Okay. Later, bro.” I’m definitely shaving my legs. I took the animal crackers in for Bryce. “Mom, if you’re good here, I’m going to pop upstairs and take a shower, okay?” “That’s fine, Lindsey. Is Slate busy?” “He’s been on the phone. I’ll let him know you’re asking about him.” I told Slate dinner was in the oven

and that Mom had asked about him. He said he would eat with her and feed Bryce. Perfect. I hurried upstairs and took a shower, making sure to shave and wax. I applied make-up; blew my hair dry, brushed my teeth and then went to my closet. I selected a pair of skinny jeans. I went through my dresser and selected a low-cut, black sweater to wear with the jeans. I pulled my black, heeled boots on and surveyed myself in the mirror. I changed purses to a larger black shoulder bag, tossing a clean pair of panties, a short, silk nightie and my toothbrush in the side pocket. Hopefully, I would have need of those items at

Taz’s. I spritzed a hint of cologne between my cleavage, put earrings in all of the piercings and I was finished. The timing couldn’t have been better. Just as I finished up, I heard Slate bellow from downstairs. “Yo, Lindsey! Need your help down here, please.” “Be right there,” I called down, running my fingers through my hair. Be still butterflies. I traipsed down the steps and did a pretty good job of acting surprised when I saw Taz standing in the living room with Slate. His eyes were immediately on me,

perusing me from top to bottom as if it had been weeks instead of days. I felt the same. “Hey, Linds,” he greeted softly, giving me his wicked smile. “Oh, hey, Taz,” I said, smiling, my hands clasped behind my back as if I was hiding something. Maybe I was - my true feelings. “Oh, Christ,” Slate said, shifting Bryce in his arms. Or maybe not. “Here, Slate, I’ll take him,” I said. “Naw, even I can’t be that much of a prick. I knew the little guy shit himself before I called you down here, Lindsey. I’ll go ahead and clean him up and change him. After that, can you keep him

entertained while Taz and I de-brief?” “Sure, no problem, Slate.” Slate disappeared down the hall to the nursery. In two steps, Taz had me lifted up in his strong arms, perched above him. I was giggling like a kid, as he spun me around. “Taz, stop, please,” I begged. He stopped and released his hold on me enough that I slid down against him, feeling every part of him as I did. His hands gathered my hair at the nape of my neck, pulling my face to his as our lips met. I laced my arms around his neck and kissed him with matching fervor. I felt his hands on my breasts,

massaging them as his lips moved to my ear. “Are we good to go, babe? You been taking your pill like a good girl?” “Mmm, yes,” I replied, my lips teasing his. “We still have to use condoms for another week.” “Really?” “I’m afraid so.” “You’re staying with me tonight after Slate and I finish up, here.” “Okay, Taz,” I replied, molding myself to him. We were still kissing when Slate returned and cleared his throat. “Ready, Taz?” I took Bryce from him and got him settled with some of his toys in the

kitchen while I cleaned up the dinner dishes and loaded the dishwasher. Slate was questioning Taz about someone named “Calvin” who apparently had been randomly shot a couple of hours after he had bonded out of jail. As soon as I finished in the kitchen, I took Bryce into the bathroom and ran a bath for him, putting his tub toys in that he loved playing with. He splashed around for a while and then we got down to business with the bath. He absolutely hated having his hair washed, but we got through it. I put a clean diaper on him and got him in his pajamas. I took him by the

hand and led him into the master suite so that he could say good-night to Mom. She was still up, watching a movie on television. “Want some company, Mom?” “Sure,” she replied, patting the bed beside her so Bryce would crawl up on it. He did and settled in next to her. “He’ll be fine here until Slate comes in,” she said. “You can go about whatever it is you wanted to do this evening,” she said, noticing the fact that I had changed and made myself up since she saw me earlier. “I take it Taz is back.” “Yes, Mom, he is. I’m spending the night over there tonight, as a matter-offact.”

“Well, I hope you’re using protection, Lindsey. I’m not just talking about birth control either. I worry about you catching some STD you’ll have for the rest of your life.” She was really getting on my nerves. She didn’t seem like my mother anymore. I realized she was ill and nervous; carrying twins that might not come to term, but why in the hell was she being so judgmental with me? “Mom, do you need anything else?” “No, Lindsey, I’ve had enough.” I left Bryce with her and went to the living room and switched on the television. I wasn’t sure how much longer Taz and Slate were going to be.

I snuggled up on the sofa and had just dozed off when I felt Taz’s hands brushing my hair. “Ready, baby girl?” I pulled myself up, grabbing my jacket.” “Oh yes,” I replied, shrugging it on. “Let’s go.”

CHAPTER 38 (Taz) Lindsey fell asleep in my truck on the way to my place. She had better rest now; she wasn’t going to be getting much later. Hell, just kissing her earlier had left me with a hard-on that I’m sure Slate hadn’t missed when I joined him. I gazed over at her face as she slept. Lindsey was beautiful and cute, innocent and sexy, sweet and a smart-ass. That was what fascinated me so much about her. She was multi-dimensional, yet not complicated. I felt bad that I had purposely not called her while I was gone. I had ample

opportunity to call her more than I had. I guess I was trying to prove to myself that I wasn’t pussy-whipped (like Slate) or that she wasn’t under my skin. Clearly, I was in denial, because I was and she was. I pulled my truck up to the curb. “Come on, sweetie,” I said, leaning over and kissing her forehead. Her eyes fluttered open and she smiled. I loved her smile. It was one of those smiles that included her eyes. Once inside, I helped her off with her jacket. “Why don’t you go crawl into my bed, baby girl? I’m wall-to-wall stink here, so I’m going to grab a shower. I’ll

be there in a few.” “Okay, Taz,” she answered, standing on her tiptoes to kiss me sweetly. “Don’t keep me waiting long.” She had no worries there. I jumped into the hot shower, lathering up and washing the grime of the day off in record time. With nothing but a towel wrapped around my hips, I headed to the bedroom. There she was, curled up in her sexy, silky underwear, sleeping soundly. There was no way I was going to wake her up. I had an angel in my bed. I dropped the towel and climbed under the covers, my arm reaching out to pull her against me. I fell asleep wrapped around her. I

never slept better than when Lindsey was in my arms. ~~~~~~~~~~ When I awoke, the sun was streaming in through the slats of the blinds. I felt Lindsey stir against me. I was fairly certain she had felt my morning wood poking into her backside. I nuzzled my face into her hair, softly kissing the nape of her neck. I felt her shiver against me. My hands found her breasts, gently massaging and teasing the nipples with my fingertips. She wriggled back against me, my hardness now very evident. She turned from her side onto her back, and I straddled her, bending down

to kiss her face, the tip of her nose, her chin and then her lips. My fingers lowered to the sweetness between her legs; she was wet already. Lindsey and I generally enjoyed a fair amount of foreplay, but this morning, both of us needed something different. My knee nudged her thighs apart and she looked up at me. “We need a condom still, remember?” “I need to feel you,” I replied, lowering myself into her. In one, quick thrust, I buried myself into her. She moaned and wrapped her legs around my hips, pulling me deeper if that was even possible. I rose up, balancing my weight on my

arms that were placed on either side of her. My hips swiveled as I backed in and out of her, thrusting myself into her warm sweetness again and again. Her soft moans were music to my ears. I had never felt the satisfaction I felt in pleasuring Lindsey with any other chick. For whatever reason, she mattered to me and her pleasure seemed more important than mine. “Fuck me harder, Taz,” she moaned against my lips, her back arching upward as I slammed in to her. Our rhythm increased, and like clockwork, we came together, spiraling into the pleasurable abyss of release. Afterwards, she rested her head on

my chest as my fingers stroked her face and hair. “I really missed you, Taz.” “I missed you too, baby girl.” “Really?” I lifted her chin so that she was looking at me. My eyes studied hers. “Why do you doubt that?” I asked. “I don’t know,” she shrugged. “I didn’t hear much from you. I figured it was out of sight, out of mind.” “Yeah,” I sighed, “I know I need to get with the program, babe. I’m new to this boyfriend stuff.” “That’s okay,” she said, smiling impishly at me. “You’ll learn.” Lindsey and I spent another hour in bed, making up for our lost foreplay.

Afterwards, we showered together. I cooked breakfast for her and she cleaned up the kitchen afterwards. I had questioned her during breakfast as to whether she had heard from Kyzer lately. She said she had not. It was odd that he had slipped beneath the radar just around the time we had made the bust in Philly. I made a note to check his whereabouts on the GPS. I hadn’t thought to do that since Lindsey had moved back home. I hadn’t felt the need. The bust in Philly had gone down beautifully. Some major players were popped, and the district agents in Philly were taking over with the federal

prosecutor to see if plea bargains were an option for names of others, higher up. Unfortunately, Calvin had “lawyered-up” immediately. That had actually surprised both Slate and I since he was relatively new at criminal activities and fairly small-time. I figured he had watched a lot of television and knew to clam up and ask for a lawyer. Now that he was dead, we had no means of getting a plea deal with him, meaning we didn’t know the identity of the dirty CBP agent that was clearing the illegal substance coming in with the green coffee beans. Slate had ordered U.S. Customs to release the details on every manifest

coming into the Port of Baltimore with cargo coded as “coffee beans” for the past three months, plus those coming in for the next two weeks. He was hoping to find a match. I don’t think he knew just how much coffee is imported into the U.S., not to mention that “green” coffee beans aren’t assigned a separate Harmonized Tariff Code than any other type of coffee bean. We had been swamped with copies of commercial invoices and import declarations to sort through, recording information as to the shipper and consignee or importer of record. We scanned all the docs, including those shipments currently on the water,

and uploaded them to Kim at headquarters for analysis. This was her expertise. She could pull, scrub and analyze data better than anyone I had ever known. She was also a great hacker, but that was just a sideline usually requested by me. Lindsey interrupted my thoughts as I was checking my email on my laptop. “You aren’t going to be working all day, are you?” “Slate asked me to hang tight until he gets back from Deep Meadows prison. He wants to fill me in on what he finds out from Davey, and then compare it to what our lab came up with on their interpretation of that formula that was in the metal lockbox.”

“Hmmph,” she mumbled, “so I guess you are working all day.” “It comes with the territory, Lindsey. Sorry babe.” “Well, I had plans to meet Darcy for lunch later this afternoon. I was fully willing to blow her off for you, though.” I pulled her onto my lap, giving her wet, sloppy kisses on her neck. “Why don’t you go ahead and meet her? You guys don’t see each other that much anymore. I’ll take care of business here and wait for Slate to fill me in when he gets back. How about I make dinner for us tonight here?” “Well, I do have to eat, I guess. Is there a sleep-over involved?”

“As long as you don’t have to be anywhere else,” I said. “Clear it with the folks.” She gave me a hard smack on my shoulder. “My mom knows about us and she isn’t pleased.” I could tell she regretted saying it the minute it left her lips. “I’m sorry,” she said. “It isn’t that she doesn’t like you, Taz.” “Well, I’m glad to see it’s nothing personal then.” “I mean it’s more about the age and level of experience difference.” “She thinks I’m a whore dog.” Lindsey got a sheepish look on her

face and looked up at me. “She’s worried you’ll give me some lifelong STD.” “Jesus Christ,” I bellowed, “you’re the only chick I’ve ever rode bareback on, does she know that?” “No, she doesn’t know that and it’s really none of her business,” she replied, irritated. “I mean, Christ, if she knew how much more pussy Slate tagged than me, yet I’m labeled as the man-whore.” “Oh, stop,” she said, getting up from my lap. “Let’s not let her cause friction between us. I shouldn’t have said anything but in case she seems different with you, I thought you should know why.”

I shook my head, smacking her rear end. “Come on, I better get you home.” “You know, Taz, Mom is going through some stuff now with her health, being worried about Grandma, and now me so she hasn’t really been herself. She’s been kind of salty with me, especially. I’m sure in time she will get back to normal.” “Yeah, and I will be happy when that day comes. Trust me; Slate is no picnic to be around these days since he hasn’t been getting pussy.” “Yo u did not just say that to me.” She was giving me the evil eye, her arms crossed in front of her. “Sorry, Linds,” I said, grabbing her

for a hug. “I keep forgetting that’s your mom I’m referring to there.” I dropped her off at the house. There was a car in the driveway. Lindsey said it belong to Donna, the home healthcare nurse that was helping out. “So what time do you want me back over?” “How does seven sound?” “That works for me,” she said. “I’ll see you then.” “Oh and Lindsey,” I called after her, “bring your appetite.” “I’ll bring both of them,” she answered, giving me her sweet, sexy smile. I watched her ass the whole way to the door. Damn, she was hot.

CHAPTER 39 I phoned Darcy when I got upstairs to my room. Donna had everything under control and was scheduled to stay until Slate returned. I had peaked in on Mom and she was napping, as was Bryce. I stripped off my clothes and waited for Darcy to answer. “Hey Linds, still wanna meet?” “Uh, yeah. That’s why I’m calling because obviously you weren’t going to.” “Sorry, I fell back asleep. Darin and I had quite a fuck-a-thon last night,” she bragged.

“That’s nice,” I replied, rolling my eyes. “You just rolled your fucking eyes.” “How did you know that?” I asked, laughing. “Your voice tone. Whenever you use that particular tone in your voice, it is followed by an eye roll. I know you well.” “So, you do.” I replied, digging in my closet for a clean pair of jeans and sweater. “Want to meet around two at Applebee’s? I’m going to have to get on the road and head back to Charlottesville after that.” “Yeah, that sounds good,” I replied.

“See you then.” Right after I got off the phone with Darcy, my phone rang. I checked caller I.D. and was surprised to see it was Kyzer. Wow, it had been awhile. “Hey, stranger,” I said when I answered. “Hey, Lindsey.” He sounded kind of down and out. “Is everything okay, Kyzer? I’ve tried to call you.” “My father passed away last week. I was in Miami for his funeral.” “Oh my God, Kyzer! Why didn’t you call and let me know?” “What difference would that have made, Lindsey? It wouldn’t have changed anything.”

“Well, yeah, but still, I would have liked to talk to you, offer whatever comfort I could. Are you still in Miami?” “No, he said, “I’m on the road back to Charlottesville. I just wanted to check in with you, you know, to see if you needed any help with Physics.” That was so damn thoughtful of him thinking about me after the grief he was feeling. “Kyzer, I am fine. Don’t worry about me. I wish there was something I could do to make you feel better.” I couldn’t imagine the grief that he was feeling right now. No brothers or sisters to share the pain, only a houseful

of servants most likely. Yet he still cared about me and my problems with Physics. “You know me, Lindsey, I live for science problems.” An idea suddenly sparked. Maybe I could temporarily distract him from his grief. I thought about the piece of paper we had recovered from the locked metal box. I was certain that Kyzer could read the formula equation and figure it out more quickly than anyone else. He would probably love the distraction. He didn’t need to the specifics around it. “Hey, you know what?” “What?” “I came across something the other day kind of out of the ordinary. It was

something I found in an old lockbox. It looks like some sort of chemical formula or equation. My stepfather scanned it and sent it off for interpretation. Too bad you weren’t around. I’ll bet you could have figured it out in no time.” “A formula?” “Yeah. It was something from Banion Pharmaceuticals. Probably nothing, but you know how anal my stepfather can be.” “Yeah,” he said, “Well, it goes with the job, I suppose. Do you still have the paper?” “Yeah, it’s around here somewhere.” “Lindsey, do you have plans this afternoon?”

I’m meeting Darcy for lunch at two at Applebee’s, just off the by-pass.” “Do you care if I drive up to see you? I just feel so lonely and hate going back to that apartment and being alone.” “Well, Kyzer, I’m seeing Taz at seven, so you know--” “I’ll head out before then. Hey, bring the paper with the formula equation to Applebee’s with you. I guarantee you, I will decipher it before I leave, and then you can impress your stepfather. I just need some company.” How could I possibly refuse him? Hadn’t he been there for me when my family needed help?” “Okay, sure,” I reluctantly agreed. I

knew Taz would not be pleased. I didn’t plan on telling him, though. Why start a war? “Okay, then, I’ll see you in a couple at Applebee’s.” “See you then, Kyzer.” I let Donna know I was meeting a friend at Applebee’s and would be back between 4:30 or 5:00 p.m. I wasn’t sure how long Kyzer planned on sticking around. She said she would let Mom know when she woke up. Darcy and I spent an hour catching up on everything: her relationship with Darin, my relationship with Taz, Jill’s relationship with Gabe. I told her about my mother’s out of character behavior regarding Taz.

“You know, Linds, her hormones are probably all out of whack, plus with the stress and everything, I wouldn’t worry too much. She’ll get with the program. This has to be pretty tough on you, too. Are you keeping up okay on your online classes?” “It’s been going okay. Speaking of that, Kyzer Stanfield should be here anytime. He called earlier. His father passed away and he wanted to drive up to talk. He’s lonely.” “You mean creepy,” Darcy replied. I was taken aback by her comment. “Since when do you think he is creepy?” “Since forever,” she replied, stuffing

a fried mushroom into her mouth. “Why haven't you said anything before now?” “Hon, you were trying to get laid. Who cares if some “Norman Bates” type is the one to get your cherry? It doesn’t mean I thought you would ever have a real romance with him. You’re too smart for that.” “Geez, its nice knowing you have my best interest at heart.” “Whatever,” she said, waving her hand at me. “Speak of the devil, Norman is here.” I turned and saw Kyzer looking around. I raised my hand up, waving to him. He smiled, immediately making his way over to us.

Darcy wasted no time in finishing up her fried mushrooms and getting her bill. She claimed she had to hit the road back to Charlottesville to study for an exam. Yeah, right. We said our good-byes as she fled. Kyzer and I sat in an uncomfortable silence for a few moments. The waitress came over and cleared off the empty dishes. Kyzer ordered an iced tea; I ordered a refill of Diet Coke. “Kyzer, again I am so very sorry for your loss. Do you want to talk about it?” “There’s really not much to say, Lindsey. It was imminent. It was just a matter of time, I knew that. But still,

when it does happen, it takes you by surprise. If it hadn’t been for Sue Ellen being with him those last few hours, he would have only had a nurse. I was driving like mad, but didn’t make it back in time. Sue Ellen is inconsolable.” “I’ll bet,” I replied. “What are her plans?” “She’ll just continue running the businesses until I graduate. My father left 75% of his total estate to me, 25% to her. I don’t see a problem with continuing to let her draw a salary as CEO over Stanfield Group until I graduate. She will then assume a post at whatever entity she wishes. She has proven herself to me.” “Well, at least there is no squabbling

or animosity. That must be a blessing.” “It is. Have you heard anything from your father?” “Nope.” “How is your mother doing?” “She’s doing well. Still confined to bed rest, but coming along nicely.” “Hey, did you bring that paper with the formula on it. I promised to crack that for you, remember?” “Oh, yeah,” I said, laughing. “You know I actually left the house without it? I’m sorry,” I lied. I had second thoughts about having Kyzer help interpret the formula after the comments that Darcy had made. It just didn’t feel right.

“Well, no matter, I guess,” he said with a shrug. “Hey, I’m going to make a trip to the restroom, Kyzer. I’ll be back in a couple. If the waitress comes by, will you ask her for my check?” “Sure thing,” he said, scanning the menu. When I returned to the table, our table had been cleared of everything but our drinks. I took a sip of my Diet Coke. “So, are you going back to classes tomorrow?” “No,” he replied with a smile. “There are some business complications that have arisen. I promised to help my step-mother with them, so it will be a

few more days before I return to classes. I’d rather talk about what’s been going on with you, anyway.” I filled him in on my recent problems with Physics. He assured me he would help me with the current units we were covering. He expected to be caught up by next week. He asked me about Taz, which frankly surprised me. “We’re doing, okay,” I said, “taking things slowly. How about you, Kyzer? Are there any girls on the horizon?” “Not since you,” he replied, with a shrug. I finished my Diet Coke, suddenly aware of an overwhelming feeling of sleepiness seeping in. I yawned.

“Am I boring you, Lindsey?” “No, not all. I’m just so sleepy all of a sudden.” “Well, maybe you should head home and take a nap before your date with Taz.” That was kind of an odd thing for him to say. I nodded. “I paid your bill while you were in the restroom,” he advised. “We can go anytime.” “You didn’t need to do that, Kyzer,” I said, yawning again. “Come on,” he said, “let’s get you to your car before you doze off. I seem to have that effect on women.”

By the time we got outside into the parking lot, Kyzer was practically holding me up. “Did you drink alcohol in there before I arrived?” “No,” I said, sleepily. “Well, I’m driving you home. I’m not allowing you behind the wheel in your condition.” I was in no state to argue as he opened the passenger side door of a car I didn’t recognize. “Where’s your Benz?” “Back in Georgia. I’m driving a rental.” A rental? Why would he be driving a rental?

Kyzer got me fastened into the passenger seat, then circled around and got in, buckling his seat belt. “I’m going to have to give you directions,” I slurred. What the hell? “Not necessary,” he replied, sounding as if he were miles away instead of just inches. My head flopped back against the headrest of the seat, my eyes closed. I thought I heard him mumble, “Sweet dreams you lying, little bitch.”

CHAPTER 40 (Taz) Lindsey’s text message had come in right before 5:00 p.m. It had simply said: Not feeling very well. Gonna lie down for a while. I’ll call you when I wake up. Sorry I had already started the preparations for our dinner, so I went ahead and finished, eating by myself. She had probably gotten shit-faced with Darcy this afternoon, and was sleeping it off. I doubted very much if she would call yet tonight. I was stretched out on my bed going over the notes that Slate had composed

after his meeting with Davey earlier. The chemist actually had the balls to try and negotiate with Slate to have his time shortened for providing him the interpretation of the chemical formula equation. Slate told him the lab could give him what he needed to know and got up to leave. Davey had told him any chemist could translate what was on the paper, but it was only partially there. Slate questioned him as to what was missing. “One key ingredient,” he had told him. “It resides right here.” Davey had pointed to his head. “Why would you have done that?”

“It was a matter of trust,” Davey told him. “I trusted no one with good reason it seems.” Slate finally sealed the deal, telling Davey he didn’t have the authority to reduce his sentence, however, he did have enough clout to see that the rest of his sentence was served in a cell with a new roommate named “Bubba.” After describing “Bubba,” along with his sexual idiosyncrasies and showing him a photo of a current inmate fitting that description, the small-framed, lightweight chemist was amenable to assisting. The formula, minus the key ingredient, had been concocted and

successfully tested as an “organelle” to develop a hybrid for Khat, a plant that is legal to harvest in places like Kenya, Somali, and Ethiopia. Apparently, the leaves of the Khat plant contain cathinone, a potent amphetamine which is illegal in the U.S. When the leaves of the plant are picked, they dry within 48 hours, and the decomposition quickly reduces the potency of cathinone to cathine. The Khat plant takes seven to eight years to reach full height and potential. The plants can be harvested four times a year. According to Davey, the organelle that was developed allowed a mutation to occur during cross-pollination with

the host Khat plant. The hybrid, or prototype, allowed the leaves to stay at max potency for thirty days or longer, which of course, made the value increase a hundred-fold. Davey said that it was Susanne that had approached him on the development, a n d provided him with the initial composition research conducted by another individual. Davey couldn’t recall the name of that individual. He claimed that Jack had not been part of this scheme initially, and that in fact, Susanne had implicitly told him to involve no one else. Somehow right before the bust had taken place, Jack had gotten wind of it. It

had caused a major argument between Jack and Susanne that Davey had witnessed. Susanne had promised Davey some major bucks if the prototype was a success. He scoffed sitting there talking to Slate about it. He asked Slate when that bitch was going to get her just desserts. Slate told him he may have to be satisfied with karma as no one had a clue where she was. “At least I know that nothing can come of that formula,” Davey had spat. “And no way in hell I’m giving up the missing ingredient.” Slate didn’t care about the missing ingredient. He only wanted to find the perps who had commissioned the

development. W h e n Slate returned from the interview, he and I discussed the cathine. That was the powdery substance that had been on the roses. What the fuck? My money said Susanne and Jack were back in the country. I turned the basketball game on, putting the notes aside for now. I had spent enough time for one day learning about cathine, organelles, and slimy criminals that had slipped through the cracks. The clock said it was going on ten. Yep, she was sleeping it off. I dozed off at some point. I was sleeping deeply when my cell phone

roused me. I felt my hand groping for it on the night stand. Shit, it was after midnight. Fine time to be feeling better, Lindsey. I saw that it was Slate. “Yeah,” I answered, running my fingers through my hair. “Hey, Taz, sorry to be calling you so late,” he apologized. “I don’t get a lot done until the rug rat is down, and tonight he was raring to go until after ten. Anyway, don’t know if you saw the data Kim pulled and sent to us from those manifests?” “Actually, no. I haven’t been on my computer for the last couple of hours.” “Well, it just came in. She has

narrowed the importers of record for the particular shipments from Ethiopia which are the likely candidates for the illegal cargo down to two.” “Yeah?” “One is located in Newark, New Jersey. It’s called “Happy Time Beverages.” The portfolio indicates it is a processing plant of various international teas and coffees. Maybe that’s not all this place processes.” “Yeah,” I replied, “being in Newark alone makes that place suspect. What’s the other one?” “Just one of those alphabet companies with not much available detail. It’s called “SKS Enterprises.”

It’s a Limited Liability Corporation in Georgia. Kim said she would dig further tomorrow during business hours with the Secretary of State’s office. I just wanted to make sure you were updated.” “Georgia,” I said, “I think Stanfield Group has a subsidiary in Georgia.” “Well, I'll see if Kim can tie it in when she gets with the office in Atlanta tomorrow.” “Yeah, right. So, is that it then?” “Uh, yeah, I just need to know what time Lindsey plans on being home in the morning. I can’t leave until she gets here.” “What? Lindsey isn’t here.” “Where is she?” “She should be there. She texted me

earlier saying she didn’t feel well and was going to lie down.” “Hold on,” he said. I waited while Slate went to check, my pulse was quickening; a feeling of uneasiness crept in. He was back in a couple of moments. “She is not here, neither is her car.” Holy fuck. “Slate, I need to get online and check the GPS in her car. Call her cell and track it. If you get nothing, call Darcy.” I went in to agent mode just like that. I fired my laptop up and pulled the GPS screen up. Her car was sitting in the parking lot of Applebee’s on the loop. I

did a “Bird’s Eye View” and zoomed in. There it was. Instinctively, I pulled up the GPS on Kyzer Stanfield’s car. I breathed a sigh of relief. It was several hundred miles away in Marietta, Georgia. My relief was short-lived. Slate called back. “Yeah?” “Her phone’s disabled. Darcy said when she left Applebee’s; Kyzer Stanfield had just come in to meet with Lindsey. She was expecting him.” Double mother-fucking shit! “We need to get to Marietta, Georgia, Slate.” “What?” “I put GPS on the mother-fucker’s car. That’s where it is. I just checked.

Lindsey’s car is still parked at Applebee’s. I just verified that.” “Calm down, Taz. We have to follow protocol, here.” “What the fuck are you saying, Slate?” “I’m saying we follow procedure. We don’t know that any crime has been committed so we follow the process.” “Fuck that,” I said, “I’m leaving for Marietta. That psycho has her.” “Taz,” he bellowed, “listen to me. I’ll get the locals to check her vehicle, okay? Let’s make sure we cover that angle. I’ll have them question the people at the restaurant, workers, regulars, anyone that might have been there. I’ll

file a missing person’s report. You need to calm down, though. You can’t go off half-cocked.” I nodded, covering my face with my free hand. I knew he was right. I needed to put my emotions aside and follow the evidence. “Okay. Sit tight while I contact the authorities. I will phone you back in just a few.” The few minutes that it took for Slate to put the investigation in motion seemed like hours. All I could think about was that Lindsey had been abducted, and I knew who had done it. When he called a few minutes later, he advised that the local authorities were on it. The car was being towed to

impound. There was no visual sign of foul play. They would be contacting the employees that had been on that shift first thing in the morning. In the meantime, Slate had contacted the authorities in Charlottesville to question Kyzer Stanfield. “He’s not in Charlottesville,” I said, getting impatient. “You don’t know that for sure, Taz. Maybe he doesn’t have that particular car at school. The family is wealthy, right? We have to close out the obvious first.” “Yeah, yeah,” I snapped, wanting to put my fist through the phone. Time was

precious. Lindsey was precious. Then I thought of Sammie. “Slate,” my voice cracked for some reason. “What are you going to tell Sammie?” “God, I don’t know,” he replied. “I’ve got to get Donna scheduled in for the morning. Try and sleep, Taz. There is nothing we can do until we get updates from the locals here and in Charlottesville.” I knew he was right. We had nothing that would support a warrant. Besides, Stanfield knew that he would be the first person suspected since Darcy knew he had been there with Lindsey when she left. He wasn’t stupid.

CHAPTER 41

My eyelids were still heavy. It felt like sand had been poured into my eyes. My mouth was dry like cotton. I kept opening and closing my eyelids to drive the sand out. The room was dark. There was a window, but the sun-filtering blinds were closed tight. I had no clue where I was. My mind was fuzzy, worse than any hangover fuzzy. I figured out I was on a bed. My arms were up over my head. I was wearing only my bra and panties. I tried to move my arms and couldn’t. My wrists were tied to something. I jerked

harder. All that did was to cause the ropes to dig into my skin. I realized my hands were tied to a spindled headboard that slammed against the wall when I tugged at my restraints. My ankles were tied together, I soon realized. What the hell is going on? I tried to stop the panic momentarily. I needed to think. What was the last thing I remembered? Okay. I had lunch with Darcy. When was that? My mind raced. Then I was with Kyzer. That’s right. Darcy left right after Kyzer got to Applebee’s. Kyzer and I talked. I didn’t give him the copy of the paper from Banion. I lied and told

him I had left it at home. Then I went to the restroom. I didn’t recall anything after that. I jerked my arms again, causing the headboard to bang against the wall loudly. The skin on my wrists was burning from the rope. I heard a key in the door to this room turning. The door opened and shut. I saw a shadowy figure coming closer. Was it still Sunday? I seemed to be in a bedroom, but whose? A light switch sounded and the room was illuminated. It was Kyzer standing next to the bed, looking down at me. “Good evening,” he said a hollow smile on his lips. “Did you nap well? You slept through our nice, private little

plane ride earlier. I told the pilot you were drunk.” He laughed at that. “Kyzer,” my voice croaked. My throat was burning. “What is this?” “Why, this is your room for now. My stepmother and I want you to be our guest for a little while. We need to figure some things out.” “What kind of things?” He ignored me, coming over and sitting down on the bed, putting his index finger on my lips. “Shhh,” he said, “enough questions, Lindsey. From here on out, I will do the talking. I think introductions are in order first.”

I heard the door open again. A tall, thin woman with short, dark hair came in. Her hair had been cut and dyed a dark brown, her make-up had changed to something more exotic, but I recognized her. It was Susanne! “Nice to see you again, Lindsey. How have you been?” “Susanne?” “This is my step-mother, Lindsey. I’d like you to meet Sue Ellen Stanfield. I’ve told you a lot about her; all good things of course.” I watched in horror as Susanne turned and smiled at him. He closed the distance between them and they kissed,

long and passionately. I was sickened. “So, Lindsey,” Susanne, said her attention turned back to me once again. “You’ve done a great service to us. We’ve been looking for that formula. It wasn’t in any of your father’s belongings that he left behind in Mexico.” “Where is my dad?” “You tell us. We were certain you were harboring him at some point, at the very least I’m certain he’s been in touch with you.” “Were you lying to me about that, Lindsey?” Kyzer asked his voice like acid. I shook my head back and forth. My arms were cramping up with tension. Kyzer pulled his arm back, bringing it

forward quickly to backhand me across the face. “Don’t fucking lie to me, bitch!” “I’m not,” I said. “I haven’t seen or heard from him at all. I mean, he might have sent the roses, but that’s the only contact he’s made, and I’m not even certain of that.” “We sent the roses you little fool,” Susanne spat. “We figured it would flush him out. He would have understood the meaning behind the message on the card. He would have known what the powder on the stems meant.” “If you haven’t been in touch, how did you get the formula that he had, that we needed?” Kyzer asked.

“It was in a locked metal box we moved from Indy. The key turned up inside something he had given me as a child.” “Yeah, right,” he scoffed, slapping me again with an open palm. “It’s the truth!” I screamed. “He must’ve put it there while we still lived in Indy; before he fled with your stepmother,” I spat, throwing a look of utter contempt at Susanne. “Ooh, Kyzer. I think you’re little friend here needs to learn some respect for Step-Mommy, don’t you?” “I think you might be right, Suzy, a lesson in respect and honesty. The little bitch lied to me about forgetting the

formula, lied to me about that fed she’s been fucking, and I’ll bet she’s lying to me now. Shall I provide the lesson?” “Can I watch?” Susanne asked, huskily. “Of course,” he said, softly, unbuckling his belt and removing it. “She needs to learn what happens to a lying, prick-tease.” My skin was crawling. My stomach roiled as I watched Kyzer, fold his leather belt in half, and approach me on the bed. I was helpless, but still I squirmed, somehow hoping that I could break free of the binds. That was not going to happen. The first lash Kyzer delivered with the belt landed against my thighs. It felt

like a knife on my skin. I flinched and waited for the next one. It was close behind, landing on my stomach. More followed, hitting my arms, my legs, my chest. I could feel blood coming to the surface on some of the welts. I was crying now. Maybe that would make him stop. It didn’t. Finally, there were no more belt lashes. I looked up, the tears stinging my eyes. I could see that Kyzer was done with the belt. He had dropped it to the floor. He wasn’t done with me, though. He unsnapped his jeans, lowering the zipper of his fly down and pulling them past his hips to the floor. He stepped out of them. I could see his cock

protruding from his boxers. Oh God, please. No, please. He put his knee down on the bed next to me, scooting himself up closer to my face. His hands were around his shaft as he prompted it towards my lips. “Suck on it, bitch,” he hissed. “You owe it to me for the way you led me on, played me all those months like some besotted fool.” I clamped my mouth shut, turning my head away. “Do you want me to get the belt again? If I have to get the belt back out, I’m not going to stop until you are a fucking, bloody pulp. It’s your decision.” “I’d suck him if I were you, Lindsey.

He tastes pretty good, better than your dad even,” Susanne said from the chair in the corner of the room where she sat watching everything. I felt tears rushing from my eyes, a sob escaped from my lips as I reluctantly turned my head back to face the lesser of the two evils. Kyzer rammed his hardened cock into my mouth. My mouth was so dry; there was no way what he was doing felt good to him. “Get her a glass of water, will you please, Suzy?” “Sure, babe,” she said, getting up from her chair and leaving the room. I got a momentary reprieve as Kyzer

waited for her return. She returned with a glass of water, holding it to my lips so that I could drink. I swallowed mouthfuls, trying to quench my thirst. I choked and sputtered; Susanne withdrew the glass from me and returned to her chair. “There now,” Kyzer said, “let’s see if you can get this right.” He shoved his cock back inside my moist mouth, and ordered me to slide my tongue around it. I did as he commanded, hating myself for being such a coward. “Umm, much better, keep going.” It seemed like an eternity before he withdrew his penis. I knew I would have puked if he had finished inside of my mouth. It was now obvious that wasn’t

his plan. “Wanna help me here, Suzy?” She got up from the chair once again, and came over to help Kyzer untie my wrists from the spindles on the headboard. Once my wrists were freed, I struggled to get out from underneath them. I scratched and clawed like a wild woman. I felt my fingernails rake down the front of Kyzer’s face. “Son of a bitch!” he hollered. I screeched in pain as his fist cuffed my cheekbone. I was momentarily dazed by the blow. I felt Kyzer lift me and turn me over, flopping me down on the bed, this time

on my belly. Once again, my wrists were tied to the spindles, tighter this time it seemed. I felt the ropes that had bound my ankles untied. My legs were freed, but lying face down now; there wasn’t much they could do to assist me in flight or defense. I had no clue what type of depravity Kyzer had planned, though I felt I would find out soon enough. The weight shifted on the bed. My face was turned to one side. I could see Susanne and Kyzer out of my peripheral vision. “I’m going to need some lubricating, baby,” he said to her, softly. “I’m betting that’s some virgin ass there.” Oh God, please, someone help me.

“I’m sure of it, baby boy,” she cooed, lowering herself in front of him, guiding his semi-erect cock into her mouth. She moaned as her mouth bobbed up and down the length of Kyzer’s shaft. His hips thrust back and forth as he moaned in pleasure at what she was doing to him orally. “That’s enough,” he said, pulling himself out of her mouth. “I’m finishing inside of her,” he said, nodding toward me. “You’ll get yours later, baby.” She nodded, getting to her feet and standing next to the bed. I felt the bed dip with his weight, his knee roughly spreading my legs further apart.

Susanne shoved a pillow under my pelvic area. Kyzer’s fingers were plying the cheeks of my ass apart. I knew what was coming. I was helpless to defend myself. “If you tense up, it’s just going to be all that much more painful,” he warned me. “Try and enjoy this, Lindsey. Suzy does.” I felt the ripping, flash of pure pain as he plunged himself into me anally. I screamed out in horror, over and over again as he continued his raw, tortuous assault. I heard myself begging and pleading for him to stop, to please just stop. He ignored my pleas, my screams and my sobs.

“Umm, yeah this is tight,” he said, rocking in and out of me. “I’m about ready to come, Suzy.” “Go for it, baby,” she said. Something in her voice and the way she seemed to be breathless when she said those words told me that Suzy was masturbating while watching my rape. Kyzer moaned and then stopped. I felt the throbbing of his penis as the warm, salty ejaculation burned the torn and tattered flesh of my insides. New screams escaped from my lips as this fresh pain continued to seep into me with each squirt of his jism. By the mercy of God, things became blessedly darker in the room. He was

finished for now. Maybe he would let this blessed darkness creep over me, allowing me to sleep. I felt the wetness seeping out as he pulled out of me. I heard his voice as I drifted off. “Jesus Christ, look at this. She’s fucking hemorrhaging over here.”

CHAPTER 42 (Taz) It was Monday morning at 7:45 a.m. I was standing on the concrete steps of the Cobb County Superior Court on Cherokee Street in Marietta, Georgia. I was praying to the saints above that whatever judge I was able to see, wouldn’t be a dickhead. I was sure I had lost my job, if not then at the very least, garnered severe disciplinary action. I had commandeered a chopper out of Quantico Marine Base by pulling in several marks from officers I knew there.

I had roused Kim’s ass out of bed at 3:00 a.m. this morning, behaving like a lunatic, convincing her it was a life or death situation (which actually I believed to be accurate). I had instructed her to provide a listing of any and all real estate holdings, personal or commercial for Stanfield Group, Stanfield Industries, Stanfield Trading Company, Stanfield Research, or anything under the name of a fucking Stanfield related to Kyzer. I recalled the name of that LLC she had turned up as one of the importers of record for the green coffee beans. I told her to check property records under “SKS Enterprises.”

She had emailed me a listing within an hour. I focused on Georgia since my instincts, and the fact that Poindexter’s car was still in Marietta, told me to start there. Slate had already phoned me at a little after 1:00 a.m. to tell me Kyzer was nowhere around Charlottesville. His roommates had said he had gone to a family funeral in Miami. They hadn’t seen him in a week or so. They had acted like they didn’t give a shit about the bastard. That wasn’t hard to understand. Slate had no clue as to what I had done. I didn’t give a shit. Even the bureau could move slowly when it

didn’t involve multiple crimes with multiple perps. The fact that my instincts told me that the son-of-a-bitch had crossed state lines with her against her will was enough for me. That was a federal crime; however, I couldn’t offer proof. A county deputy unlocked the glass doors to the courthouse. I went through the obligatory metal detector and immediately the fact that I was carrying my Glock sounded the alarm. Half-dozen deputies immediately surrounded me. I pulled my FBI badge out for their examination. Christ, I had my navy blue hoodie with “FBI” splattered across it in big bold-ass letters. What the fuck?

“Special Agent Matthews, you still need to check your weapon at the door,” I was informed. “Not a problem, guys,” I said. “Just here to see a judge about a warrant.” I handed my weapon over and was scanned with a handheld wand then nodded through. “Can I ask where the judge’s chambers are located? I’m kind of in a rush here.” “Which judge?” Which judge? I don’t fucking care which judge. Any judge who will sign a fucking warrant for me! “Which judge is most likely to be in chambers already? Maybe we should

start there.” “I’m pretty certain Judge Sinclair is already here. He tends to get here before we open the doors. His bailiff is up on the second floor, Courtroom Number 2.” “Thanks,” I said, taking off toward the wide, winding staircase. I took the steps two at a time until reaching the second floor. I found the bailiff’s office, right next to the double wooden doors that had a brass plate indicating Courtroom No. 2. The brass plate on the countertop in the bailiff’s office read: Evelyn Pridy, Bailiff. She was sitting behind the high oak counter, going over case dockets when I interrupted her. “Excuse me, ma’am," I said, pulling

my identification out for her to examine, “I need to see Judge Sinclair.” She perused my badge, unimpressed. “In reference to?” she asked, raising her eyes to mine. “I need a warrant signed for a search of several properties in Cobb County.” “Is this a federal warrant, Agent Matthews?” Damn! How did I know she was going to ask that? “No, ma’am,” I replied, “It was prepared according to Georgia State requirements.” “So then the warrant isn’t serving any federal purpose?” “That’s correct, ma’am.”

I was getting pissed at the third degree; she seemed to be getting pissed with each “ma’am” I laid on her. “May I see the warrants, Agent Matthews?” “Certainly,” I said, giving her a smile. She took them from me, perusing them up and down as if she was looking for something, anything to in order to toss them back. “Agent Matthews,” she said, now taking on a conciliatory tone, “there is nothing filled in here under “Probable Cause.” “I’d like to discuss that with the judge, ma’am.”

“Agent Matthews,” she sighed, “perhaps the feds don’t understand, or are not used to having to abide my state statute on these things, but I am the door to the judge right now. If you don’t get by me, you don’t see the judge.” The wrinkled old prune had just severed my last nerve. “Listen, lady,” I said, my voice rising, “while this case may not be on the federal docket at this moment in time, there are certainly extenuating circumstances involved which relate to an on-going federal case involving two fugitives from justice. "So, I am going to see that judge regardless as to who or what door I have

to plow through in order to do it, got that?” I noticed the color drain from her face around the same time a tall, dark haired man not much older than me opened the door behind her desk that led to his chambers. The hallowed chambers, I thought to myself, ready to rip into him if necessary. “I couldn’t help but overhear,” he said, motioning me to come around the oak counter towards the door to his chambers. “It’s alright, Evelyn. I’ll see the agent.” She let out a huff that said clearly she was not pleased. I went through the doorway, hearing the judge close the heavy, wooden door

behind us. He took a seat behind his desk. He didn’t have the robes going yet. He didn’t shrug that on until right before he left chambers for the courtroom. He motioned for me to take a seat opposite him, holding his hand out for the packet of papers I had requested Kim produce prior to leaving D.C. He read through them quickly and looked up. “Trace Matthews?” He had read my signature on the bottom where the line asked who the “requestor” was. He was eyeing me as if he somehow knew me. “Are you related to the ‘Trace Matthews’ who owns the bottling plant

and distillery near Sonoma, California?” Yes! This is a good sign. “That’s my father,” I replied. “I’m sorry, Judge, I’m not familiar--” “Oh,” he said, smiling, “you wouldn’t actually know me but that name is not common. I used to visit Napa occasionally in high school with my parents. My two older brothers did and one still does a lot of business with your family. I’m Trey Sinclair. My brothers are Nigel and-” “Tristan,” I finished for him, getting a grin on my face. “I sure as hell do know them. It is a small world I guess.” “Tristan sold his winery to Nigel. He lives back here now,” he said, “I’ll let him know I saw you.”

Judge Sinclair went back to reading through the warrants. Luck seemed to be on my side. I saw pictures of his family, I presumed on his desk. He had a hot wife, and by the looks of it, two kids, both nice-looking, too. I suddenly realized that was my dream. I had never thought about that before but I wanted what Trey Sinclair had more than anything. “Agent Matthews,” he said, “you have to know that this is not customary. There is no federal jurisdiction here for what appears to be a ‘non-FBI’ matter.” “I realize that is how this looks, your Honor, but I am certain, and I’m going

on gut instinct here, that this is not an exercise in futility. I’ve put my whole career on the line, I am that certain.” He looked at me for a moment. “What about ‘probable cause’ Trace?” “It’s there, your Honor. I just don’t have it with me. There’s a video from the security cameras at the Applebee’s restaurant where she was last seen by her best friend with the individual I’m trying to locate. It shows her leaving with him and she appears to be somewhat incapacitated.” “Perhaps she was intoxicated?” “No, sir. I know that was not the case.” I laid out the facts known to me so

far about Kyzer Stanfield and Jack Dennison. I included a run-down of all of the activities that had led to the bust last year, plus what had transpired since Lindsey had changed schools and met up with Kyzer Stanfield. “I’m not one to second guess a special agent,” he replied. “I will sign this, please don’t make me regret it,” he said, signing all of the warrants. “What resources did you bring with you?” “For now, it’s just me.” I realized the folly of that decision when I saw Judge Sinclair studying me again. “This girl, she’s someone special to

you, isn’t she?” “She’s someone special to a lot of people, your Honor.” He nodded and picked up his phone, buzzing the “Bailiff from Hell.” “Evelyn, please contact Ed Harsher with the Investigation Division of GBI in Atlanta. Let him know we need a halfdozen agents STAT, reporting here. That’s right. Then call the Atlanta field office of the FBI and request special assistance for the county. We need a couple of SWAT agents to work under Special Agent Matthews when he serves these warrants to the various properties in Cobb County.” I had never wanted to kiss or hug a guy until now. It was God’s providence

that had brought me to Judge Trey Sinclair. He was going to help me save an angel.

CHAPTER 43 I didn’t know how long I had been in this dim, quiet bedroom, tied to this bed. I had lost all sense of time passing. I knew that I hurt all over. Somehow I had been rolled back over on my back. They must have untied me to flip me over, and tied me back up. I felt wetness underneath me. I was certain there was blood involved, I had also urinated myself. What choice did I have? I hadn’t been given any more water since before I was raped by Kyzer. Unfortunately, my black-out had not erased the memory of each ugly, nasty,

painful detail of what that bastard had done to me, all the while Susanne had watched and helped when necessary. Why had they done this to me? If they had what they wanted with that stupid formula that Kyzer had taken from me, then why had it been necessary for him to kidnap me and now hold me hostage? This wasn’t their home. It didn’t seem like a regular house at all. There were no sounds of activity either inside or outside; no horns or sirens, no television or radios playing, not even the sound of a furnace kicking on or off, yet it was warm enough. My lips felt dry and parched, my stomach growled from being empty. The

blinds were shut tight. I had no clue as to whether it was day or night. Then I heard the echo of footsteps coming closer to the door. The hallway outside must be tiled or wooden. There was just one set of footsteps nearing the door to this room, my jail. I heard the key turn in the lock. An overhead light switched over the bed. My eyes immediately closed tightly from the sudden burst of light it shed. “Well, you’re certainly a mess,” Kyzer said. “You stink, too.” I was glad. I hoped the stench would keep him away from me. I would rather die than go through another round of his perverted torture. “Why are you doing this to me,

Kyzer? I need to know.” “It’s simple. Suzy and I don’t believe you. You have been in touch with that asshole of a father of yours, and he owes us something. We figure if you mean shit to him at all, he’ll produce what we need in exchange for you. Trust me; your old man has the resources to find you. He has a network here in the states. That’s why he’s able to move about fairly freely. Not like poor Suzy. She constantly has to go into hiding from pricks like your step-father and boyfriend. They aren’t doing you much good right now, are they?” “You have to believe me; he has not been in touch with me at all. You think I

wouldn’t have told you by now if he had?” “I think Daddy’s Girl still feels loyalty to the rotten bastard, that’s what I think.” “Well, you’re wrong, Kyzer. I don’t condone what he did, or what you and Susanne are doing. I certainly wouldn’t protect him with my own life. What is it he owes you? Is it money? Maybe I can help.” “Does it look like we’re hard up for money, here? No, it’s not money, per se. He does, however, owe us something that is going to make us a whole lot more money. I’m talking billions. The sick thing is that the bastard can’t do anything with it himself. Yet, he is prepared to let

you die rather than just give it up.” “What the fuck are you talking about?” I screamed. I don’t know where I got that sudden bit of strength to scream, but I did. I was sick of this pathetic game he was playing with me. I wanted an answer. “I’m talking about that formula,” he spat. “There is one ingredient missing. It’s useless to us and to our plans without that one missing ingredient, okay?” “How do you know he even has it?” “He has to. There is no one else involved. When he found out that Suzy had commissioned one of the chemists at Banion to finish developing a chemical

formula that I had started for a substance to be used to create a hybrid plant, he wanted in. "The substance was successfully tested on a prototype plant, proving out the formula. The formula on the paper you found has failed in the lab. It is incomplete. Something is missing. Who else could have tampered with it?” “Why would my dad have reason to?” I asked. Kyzer rolled his eyes at my inability to get with the program. “Because, he realized that she was going to cut him out. He was not going to be part of the project. My stepmother was a married woman, with plenty of resources right within the Stanfield

group to produce the plants. She needed the formula development to be done outside of my father’s company. It was to be her secret - and mine. My father had a tendency to keep an eye on her activities, until he just couldn’t anymore. Once she had the formula, she didn’t need Jack anymore. Once my father passed, production could commence.” My skin went cold hearing him say that about his own father. My God, what kind of a monster was Kyzer? My mind, foggy as it was, went back to that formula. Slate was to talk to the chemist in prison. His name was John Davey. I had no clue what Slate had found out, I had nothing to barter. Maybe

I could bluff. “Did you ever consider that my father didn’t know the formula had been tampered with? Did it even occur to you or your step-mommy-dearest that it could have been John Davey?” “Who?” Now I rolled my eyes at him to show he needed to get with the program. “The chemist who wrote the formula equation, John Davey. He’s serving time in Deep Meadow Correctional Center.” “And you know this, how?” “I was the one that pointed out the chemist identification number to Slate. I worked in the R & D lab at Banion. I was familiar with the identification stamps. Number 31 was John Davey’s

stamp. He was convicted in all of the drug trafficking stuff that went down that summer.” “Tell me more,” he prodded, now interested in what I had to say, or bluff. “I need some water first.” “Talk now, then water.” “Slate went to Deep Meadow to question John Davey Sunday morning, the same day you and I met at Applebee’s. He got back before I left to meet Darcy. I heard him telling Taz all about it,” I lied. I shook my head in disgust. “So, I’m waiting,” Kyzer snapped. “John Davey told Slate that there was an ingredient left off of the formula

and it was in his head and that was where it was staying.” “I don’t believe that.” “I don’t care whether you believe it or not, Kyzer. That’s what he told Taz. He claimed he had come to mistrust both my father and Susanne, imagine that, and until he saw the cash he was promised, he was not parting with that critical piece of information.” The lie was plausible. I prayed to God he accepted it as the truth. He had no reason for torture me further if he believed it was the truth. “Why didn’t you tell me this before?” “When have I had the opportunity? You pretty much tortured me and then

left me to bleed out here.” Kyzer got up and left the room, returning with a glass of water. I struggled to lift my head from the pillow to sip it. My head was throbbing. I drank it all, relaxing back down. My body felt hot and clammy. Kyzer looked at me with no emotion, whatsoever. “You’re burning up,” he commented. “Kyzer, please. Let me go. I won’t tell anyone.” “You must think I’m fucking stupid,” he said. “How long do you think it will take for your step-father and boyfriend to figure out who you are with? I’m sure they are chasing their tails in Miami

right now. That’s where I told my roommates I was going to be.” “What do you plan on doing with me?” “I haven’t decided; I need to talk to Suzy.” “So, in the meantime, you’re just leaving me here alone to starve?” He tossed a blanket over on top of me. “I’ll have to check with Suzy to see if she wants you to have food. I wouldn’t be making any long-term plans though, Lindsey. It’s almost noon. I need to get back to the condo. I need to fill Suzy in on what you overheard regarding the chemist.” “Kyzer,” I called out as he started

toward the door, feeling as if were the last time I would see him, or anyone else for that matter. “What day is this?” “It’s only Monday, love. You’ve not even been here for twenty-four hours yet. Don’t tell me that you are homesick?” The sick bastard persona had returned. How had he kept it hidden from me all those times before? He put his hand on the door knob and then turned around to look at me. His expression was almost nostalgic. “What a shame,” he said, “this room you’re in is over the factory where Suzy and I were going to make our dreams come true. There are acres and acres of soil out back that were going to host our

lovely Khat plants. The factory floor below was going to robotically process the plants into potent amphetamines that would have netted millions if not billions. Such a shame.” He left the room, locking the door behind him as if I even had the strength to walk if I hadn’t been tied up and still feeling blood trickle from me in various places. I felt myself cry, but no tears came out. I was still dehydrated. I couldn’t even produce a single tear.

CHAPTER 44 (Taz) A few minutes after 10:00 a.m. the team of FBI Swat agents and the halfdozen GBI agents from Atlanta were assembled at the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office for de-briefing. Kim had kicked ass downloading the addresses along with photos of the properties covered in the search, photos of Kyzer, Lindsey, Jack and Susanne. Slate had arrived just minutes before having driven from D.C. I wasn’t sure how much trouble I was in with the bureau, but I was sure he would deal with that later. I waited for him to take

the lead and divvy up the resources. “Agent Matthews,” he said, “this is your operation. I suggest you get the ball rolling." I de-briefed the rest of the agents and officers on the available intelligence, distributed the photos, plotted out the locations of the properties to be searched on the electronic map of the county. We were all connected through walkie-talkies. Slate went with two of the GBI agents to execute the search warrant at the exclusive condo that was titled in Kyzer’s father’s name. We sent another team to execute the warrant on Stanfield R & D.

I went with two of the SWAT team members to serve the warrant on a rural property holding about twenty miles outside of Marietta. This property was titled to “SKS Enterprises.” From the information Kim had gathered, it was a fairly recent acquisition. It was an abandoned factory that had gone into foreclosure a couple of years back. It had been purchased by this alphabet LLC from the bank just a few months ago. I wasn’t sure what we would find there. There was no phone listing for it. It wasn’t registered as a local business of any sort. It was going to take my team the

longest amount of time to get to the search destination. Everyone was to hang back, using the walkie-talkies inside of the unmarked vehicles to communicate with one another. Once everyone was in position, the warrants were to be executed simultaneously to make sure no one else was tipped off. Kim was monitoring all of the vehicles on GPS from our field office in D.C. The SWAT ag ent driving was Agent Hardesty. He was well versed in the winding, narrow rural roads we were traveling to reach our warrant destination. Agent Evans was in the back. Kim’s voice came over my walkie-

talkie. She was patched in from the D.C. office. “Agent Matthews, I am synchronizing your vehicle’s GPS with that on unit serial number 10978233 that I’ve been tracking per your request at 11:45 a.m. EST. That vehicle is within a five-mile radius of your current location. Stand by.” Shit! That’s Kyzer’s Benz. Keep coming, baby. “That’s clear,” I radioed back. “It’s on the screen now. Over.” “Agent Hardesty, the vehicle approaching right here,” I said, putting my finger on the GPS screen and showing him the moving pink dot, “is

Kyzer Stanfield’s dark blue, Mercedes Benz, C300. If he continues on his current route, we should be coming up on him in about three minutes. We need to apprehend this individual.” “Not a problem, Agent Matthews. There are no turn-offs between here and there." “Keep in mind he may have passengers.” “Not a problem.” “Keep in mind, there is not a warrant issued for this individual.” “Still, not a problem. Get ready, Evans.” Good. We are on the same page. I could feel my adrenaline pumping; the bastard was almost in our sights.

The seconds ticked by like minutes. Finally, up on the horizon, we could see his dark blue Benz coming closer. We couldn’t afford to get tangled up in a car chase. Not out here on these twisted, narrow, hilly roads. Hardesty pushed a button and the sunroof opened on the top of our SUV. Just as the two vehicles prepared to pass, Evans raised himself up quickly, clearing the roof of the vehicle, and fired two shots from his high-powered, automatic rifle at the back tires of the Mercedes. “You gotta love these bullets,” he said, smiling as he sat back down. “They do a nice job on steel-belted tires.”

Hardesty slowed the SUV and made a U-turn, coming up quickly beside the Mercedes, now limping along the graveled berm. I was out of the vehicle like a shot. It was me and him, and he was going to tell me what I wanted to know. He cowered in his vehicle, trying to use his cell phone. Oh, hell no! I braced myself, grabbing my Glock from my waistband holster, and ordered him out of the vehicle. He delayed. Not good. I shot the glass out of the driver’s side window. Reaching inside, I hauled his skinny ass through the window with

one arm. I threw him up against the side of his vehicle. Hardesty had his weapon drawn and on him, while Evans frisked him top to bottom. “Clean,” Evans said, retreating back. “Oh, I don’t know about that,” I said, walking closer. “You can turn around now, Kyzer. We were just on our way to see you. We have some questions.” He looked up at me, his face full of haughty attitude. He was not going to make this easy, I could tell. We didn’t have a lot of time to lose either. “I’m not saying a thing. I want a lawyer.” “Did you hear that guys? He wants a lawyer and we haven’t even questioned

him yet.” I heard the other two agents scoff in response. I held the cold, steel barrel of my Glock up next to his temple, pressing it into the skin. “Where’d you get the nice, long scratch on your face, Poindexter?” “My pussy cat,” he said, smiling. The son-of-a-bitch was so close to dying. He was just too stupid to realize it. “Are you resisting me?” I bellowed, causing him to jump. The barrel of the Glock left a mark on his skin. “Hardesty, is this mother-fucker resisting me?” “Looks that way, Special Agent

Matthews, sir!” “Evans,” I shouted, not taking my eyes off of Kyzer’s now frightened ones. “Is the suspect armed and threatening our safety and our lives?” “Yes, sir, Special Agent Matthews! I plainly see the gun in his hand, sir. The suspect has drawn a weapon on an agent of the F.B.I. and has threatened to shoot!” “That’s what I thought,” I sneered, snatching him up. I moved the barrel of my gun and ran it across his lips. “Do you like the taste of gun metal, Poindexter? You are going to taste a whole lot more of it if you don’t tell me in the next five seconds where Lindsey is, you sorry-ass, mother-fucker.”

“Okay, okay,” he said, his eyes now panicked. “She’s back at the old factory on Fraley Road. There’s a locked room up on the mezzanine, overlooking the factory floor. If you release me, I’ll give you the keys.” “Who else is there?” “No one. Just her. I swear.” I released him; he audibly sighed with relief. Our weapons remained drawn, as he reached into the pocket of his Polo jacket, and pulled out a set of keys. “This one is to the main factory door; this one is to the locked room on the mezzanine.” “You better hope she is alright,” I

hissed, putting my Glock away. “Evans, Mirandize this piece of shit, and stay with him until the locals get here to haul him in. By the way, Poindexter, it appears you have pissed yourself.” Kyzer Stanfield lowered his head as if he hadn’t realized throughout the ordeal that he had urinated in his drawers. A large wet spot covered his whole crotch area, and halfway down each thigh. Hardesty and I returned to the SUV and took off. I radioed the others that Kyzer Stanfield was in custody. Kim was contacting the locals to dispatch deputies to pick him up with Agent Evans.

We were going to proceed with the warrants, as authorized, to see what other evidence could be uncovered. I relayed to Slate that Stanfield had said Lindsey was locked up in the deserted factory, and that I would radio back once we had her in our protection. Slate was tense. I could hear it in his voice. I was not as tense, knowing that we would be there within minutes to get her into our custody and protection. My protection. My Lindsey. Within minutes, all the teams were in place to execute the warrants. Kyzer had been honest about the factory. It was deserted. There wasn’t a vehicle or a soul around. It was fairly large on what

seemed to be more than a hundred acres. There were no homes, farms or businesses around. Hardesty and I let ourselves in; looking around to make sure it was just as deserted as it appeared. It was cold and damp inside. There was no shortage of rodent droppings, either. We located the factory floor, and to the west end of it, there were metal steps leading up to the mezzanine he described. We used flashlights to guide us. Some portions of the building seemed to have electricity, others did not. I climbed the metal steps and went through a swinging door down a long, tiled hallway.

It looked as if at one time when the factory had been operational, the mezzanine might have been where the lunch room, supply room and rest rooms were located. At the end of the hallway, there was a door that was shut. It had placard over the door that read “Infirmary.” I inserted the key into the lock, it turned. I opened the door to the room, not the least bit prepared for what I was about to find when I switched on the light. Slate’s voice came over the walkietalkie just as I flipped the light switch. “We’ve got Sue Ellen Stanfield, a.k.a. Susanne Reynard in custody, boys.

Taz, what’s goin’ on at your end?” I felt something wet running down my cheeks. It was foreign to me, and for the first time ever, I froze. I couldn’t move. I couldn’t speak. My heart had died inside of me. “Taz? Did you copy that?” I heard a voice next to me on the walkie-talkie. “This is Agent Hardesty. We’re going to need an ambulance here, stat. Do you copy?” “Copy that, Agent Hardesty.”

CHAPTER 45 There had been so much pain, so much agony, and so much fear. My throat had burned with its own fire, my muscles ached, and my bones ached, my skin felt as if it had been ripped from me in several places. I remembered why I was in pain, and who had inflicted the pain. I remembered thinking that death might just be a blessing, if it truly meant the pain would be gone. I had lain in this bed hour after hour, and thought about what death might mean for me. It would mean never seeing my

mother again. I couldn’t imagine that, but mostly I worried as to how my death would make her feel. She had been angry and disappointed in me because of my relationship with Taz. If I died, the guilt of that would haunt her. I didn’t wish her that. I thought about not seeing my baby brother again, of missing all of his “firsts” as he grew into a toddler, then adolescent. He wouldn’t remember me as he grew older. He wouldn’t remember that I had changed his diaper, fed him, played with him, rocked him and loved him. I didn’t want him to forget me. I thought about Slate, and how even

though he was not a father-figure exactly, he was still someone that I cared about and respected. I thought about all that he had gone through with my mother, and what he would be faced with if I died, dealing with her sadness and anguish. I didn’t wish that for him. I thought about Taz and how important he had become to me. I understood now why he had gotten so upset when I continued to communicate in any fashion with Kyzer. He had known somehow the monster Kyzer was. I knew that he would blame himself, then me, then himself again. I knew if I died, he would be twisted up inside, that he would wonder about what might have been, that he would have a broken heart.

As much as I thought about the important people in my life, I knew that eventually, all of them would be okay with my passing, except Taz. Maybe it’s because when one hovers between life and death, things suddenly become crystal clear in their minds, and the realization hits about what is truly important to the ones you love, the ones you leave behind. I wasn’t ready to part with Taz in this life. There were still things we hadn’t done, arguments we hadn’t had, laughter we hadn’t shared, tears we hadn’t cried, and the realization that we were meant to be. I realized if I died, then I would have

left this earth not sharing with him one, vital piece of information, and that was that I loved him, and that my heart belonged to him. Leaving this planet without letting Taz know that I loved him? I didn’t wish that for me. I slept and felt pain. I felt pain and slept. I had dreams that made no sense, heard voices that I didn’t recognize, and prayed to a God that didn’t seem to be listening to me at the moment. And then one day the pain started to ebb, the sleep started to feel restful, and the voices were familiar to me. My skin didn’t burn, my bones and muscles no longer ached, the chills no longer racked my body and I did this very wonderful

thing: I sneezed. I felt the sneeze and I heard the sneeze. I also heard a familiar voice say, “Bless you.” “Thank you,” I replied, my voice sounding almost foreign to me. Someone was at my side, taking my hand into his strong, warm one. I knew that hand; I knew that presence. “Taz?” I opened an eye, squinting into the sunlight coming in from a window somewhere. I looked up and there he was, the sunlight framing his beautiful face as if he were an angel. And I saw his smile, and he truly was my angel, and I thanked the God I presumed had been ignoring

me. “I’m alive?” “Yes, baby girl, you are alive and awake.” I saw the IV tubes stuck in various places in my arms. There appeared to be a feeding tube in my stomach, as near as I could tell. It was obvious I was in the hospital, but how long had I been here? “Do you remember what happened?” “Of course I do, Taz. That son-of-abitch Kyzer tortured me beyond anything you could imagine.” I saw his smile fad into a grim line. Apparently, Taz had been clued in as to the extent of the torture. My voice was hoarse and raspy. Taz grabbed a Styrofoam cup from the

bedside table and poured water from a pitcher into it. He placed a bendy straw in it, and held it to my lips. I drank and drank and it tasted so good, so soothing to my throat. I stopped sipping, feeling quenched. He was staring at me so intently, so seriously. He looked so tired. “Before you say anything, Taz, I know I need to apologize. You were right, I was wrong. He was a monster, pure and simple. If I had listened to you-” “Stop,” he all but shouted, causing me to jump. “Oh, I’m sorry, baby girl, I didn’t mean to raise my voice. I won’t have you blaming yourself or

apologizing for anything. Do you understand?” I nodded. He was strangely calm and quiet. “If I had been allowed to share with you the Intel that I had, you might have taken it all more seriously. I couldn’t, so you didn’t. You have no reason to apologize. I am the one that needs to apologize, baby. I didn’t keep you safe.” I wasn’t going to let this fight for blame continue. The bottom line was that monsters like Kyzer Stanfield needed to take responsibility for the things they did. “Taz, please tell me that Kyzer has been arrested.” “He has,” he replied.

I breathed a sigh of relief, mentally thanking the God who had been watching over me once again. “And Susanne?” “Yes.” Another “Thank you, God.” “Then, I guess I have a lot to be thankful for, Taz. Those are really the important things, right?” “The most important thing, baby, is that you woke up and you are still alive, because you don’t know how close it was at times.” “I think I might have a clue,” I said, squeezing his hand. “I made my intentions known to the higher-ups while I was out.”

He cocked a beautiful eyebrow at me which reminded me of some unfinished business I had with him. “Taz?” “Yeah, baby?” “Come closer, please?” “Lindsey, honey, there’s all this stuff,” he said, indicating the tubes and IVs that were like spaghetti going in and out of my arms and stomach. He saw my look of determination and carefully picked his way through them to hoist himself up on the edge of my hospital bed so that he was next to me. “I’ve been meaning to tell you something. It hit me while I was off in

dreamland.” “Oh, yeah?” “Yeah.” “I’m listening, baby girl.” “I love you, Trace.” “I love you, Lindsey. Haven’t you been listening?” Now it was my turn to be puzzled. He saw the frown crease my forehead. “I’ve told you that each and every day for the past three weeks. Will you ever get with the program?” He leaned over and gently kissed my lips several times and I knew that God had done me well. We were still cuddling when the nurse came in and seemed pleased that I was awake.

“Well, finally,” she said, shooing Taz out of the bed to take my vitals. “I knew you’d be coming around,” she said, taking my wrist to verify my identification band. “I told this one as much every day seeing him here, moping around with that hang-dog look. It takes a while for those injuries to heal and the infection to clear up. Your surgery was done by one of the best, Ms. Dennison. He flew in from Boston General to reconstruct your bowel. You were lucky to have him.” Surgery? Reconstruct my bowel? Taz was watching me closely, reading my confusion. He cleared his throat. The nurse looked at him and I

saw him shake his head “no” a couple of times. What in the hell was that about? “Where’s my mother?” I asked, finally realizing that it was strange for her not to be here since I had apparently skirted death by the skin of my teeth. The nurse was clearly puzzled that I had asked that question. “Sweetie,” Taz said, taking my hand again. “You are at Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville. You were air-lifted here once you were assessed at the trauma center in Atlanta because of the type of injuries you sustained.” I nodded, waiting for him to continue. “Your mother suffered a bit of a setback with the news of what had

happened to you. She’s at Walter Reed now. She lost one of the twins.” Oh my God! This has got to be killing her. “Is she going to be okay?” “Everyone is hoping. They have to do surgery on her tomorrow. This happened just a couple of days ago. She got really, really ill. She has been here to see you several times, but only briefly. It was too much on her, babe. She didn’t obey doctor’s orders, she insisted Slate bring her here. It’s been a mess.” “What surgery?” I asked. “They need to do some type of laser surgery so the remaining twin gets

enough blood from the placenta on account of that TTTS condition.” “Oh God, Oh God, Taz.” “I know, baby. I know. But your mom wants you to focus on recovery, okay? That’s why I’m here. She knows I won’t let you slack off.” He was trying to tease me now to make me feel better. I once again prayed to God that everything would be okay for Mom and her baby. How much worse could anything get? The nurse was recording my blood pressure, checking my urine output from the catheter bag. “Now,” she said, “Let me check your colostomy bags.” What?

I heard Taz clear his throat. “I’ll just step outside to give Lindsey some privacy.” He departed quickly from the room. The nurse shook her head. “He’s been here daily and observed me doing this. He has plans to give you your post-release care. I don’t understand why all of a sudden he turned bashful,” she said as if this was nothing. “He knows how to change these bags better than me.” I was frozen to the spot. I was unable to speak or comment. Suddenly, as I watched her lift my blanket and check the contents of two very distinct plastic bags on opposite ends of my abdomen, I

was ready to rescind my prayers of thanks to the God who had played a monumental, crazy, sick joke on me.

CHAPTER 46 (Taz) I walked down the hallway of the hospital, raking my hands through my hair. I couldn’t handle it. I was such a fucking, fucking coward. I had left Lindsey’s room because I couldn’t handle the expression that had crossed her face when she saw those colostomy bags. She would have questions. I didn’t have answers. It had been just over three weeks since Agent Hardesty and I had opened that locked door to find her. No matter how hard I tried, I would never get that picture of her, arms up over her head,

tied to the headboard of that bed, lying in her own blood out of my head. She had been so pale; her skin so hot to the touch. She was not conscious and I could only hope that she hadn’t felt too much pain prior to passing out. Someone had tossed a blanket on top of her. Hardesty went over to her first. I had been frozen like a statute to where I stood. As Hardesty, lifted the blanket, I could see she was only wearing ripped panties and a bra. I quickly un-froze. “Don’t touch her,” I had practically yelled to Hardesty. I shoved him away and he sensed I wanted to provide what privacy I could for her at that moment. I pulled my Kydex knife from the sheath and cut the ropes that were

binding her wrists and ankles. I wrapped her feverish, limp body up in the blanket, noticing all kinds of cuts and belt marks on her skin. At that very moment, for just that instant, I wanted to go back twenty minutes in time, when I had my weapon pulled and pressed against Kyzer Stanfield’s temple. I wouldn’t have paused for a second in releasing the entire clip into his fucking, sick brain. The locals were there within minutes, along with paramedics who quickly got her into the truck headed for a hospital in Marietta. She had been assessed at the trauma center, and then air-lifted to Vanderbilt

for the anticipated surgery required to reconstruct her lower bowel and rectum that had been torn apart by Kyzer’s brutal rape. The bacterial infection had prevented the surgery from taking place for over a week. Her surgeon had said that her situation was critical if the bacteria got into her bloodstream, she could go into septic shock which ultimately could result in organ failure and death. Once the surgery was performed, signs of infection appeared once again, and for the next ten days she had been in the ICU. The doctor had performed the temporary colostomy as a means to minimize infection traveling to the area

reconstructed and promote healing. Lindsey was alive and she was healing. I had prayed over her constantly, bargained with God for her to survive. All I hoped for was that she could accept that her survival might mean having to live with the colostomy for a period of time, possibly forever. The doctor said it could be reversed, but it was dependent on how well Lindsey healed without complications. I thought about how much I wanted to kill Kyzer Stanfield then and even now. It wasn’t enough that he was arrested, it wasn’t enough that we got Susanne in the process, and that the barrels of cathine had been located at the R & D site, I

wanted more. I wanted someone to pay with their blood for what Lindsey had endured at the hands of those maniacal thugs. I wanted retribution. I couldn’t think about that now. I needed to get back to her. Her doctor would be coming in shortly for his daily check. They had induced her coma for the purpose of getting her through the pain of the surgery and infection. She would need a few more days here and then I was taking her home, to my home to care for her as long as she needed me. I retraced my steps down the corridor. I was prepared now to answer the questions that I could, to reassure her that everything was going to be okay.

When I breezed back through the door to her room she was wiping her eyes. The nurse had been back in to remove the catheter. She told me on her way out that the doctor had ordered the feeding tube removed, and it would be done shortly. I sat down next to Lindsey’s bed. “So babe,” I said, “Everything is going to be okay. You know that, right?” She looked over at me, tears fresh in her eyes, shaking her head. “How can you say that, Taz? How will my life ever be the same like, like this?” Her hands motioned towards her abdomen as sobs escaped from her. I leaned over, taking her hands and

putting them to my lips, kissing them. “Baby girl,” I said, “You are young and healthy. Your doctor says that this will probably be temporary until you fully heal, okay?” “Really?” she asked, looking hopeful. “How long?” “I’m not sure, sweetie. You need to discuss that with your doctor when he comes in today, okay?” She nodded. I could tell that she felt a little better. “Taz how is it you’ve been able to spend all of this time here with me?” “I took a leave of absence from the bureau. I want to take care of you, Lindsey.” She looked puzzled, not saying

anything right away. “I don’t understand. Don’t you need a paycheck?” I smiled at her. Always the pragmatist. “I’ve tucked some money away, not to worry.” “Taz, I love you,” she said, “But I’m not comfortable with you seeing me like this, you know?” “Seeing you like what?” “You know what I’m talking about.” “No, Lindsey, you see I don’t know what you’re talking about.” “Like this; shitting in baggies taped to my abdomen, how’s that? Do you understand now?”

“Lindsey, what I understand is that you’ve been through something horrific, something horrible. But because of the strength you have, you have survived. You’re tough. So, if you have your shit going into a baggie for a few weeks, a few months or forever, so what? Do you recall me telling you that I loved you?” “Yes, but that was before.” “Before what?” “Before I knew what I know now.” “Which means?” “Which means, Taz, you are off the hook. What happened to me was not your fault. So, please, just lose the guilt, okay? I am damaged goods here, but you are not responsible for that. I won’t rely

on your misguided sense of guilt or pity to get me through the night.” She pulled her hand from mine and rolled over, her back to me now. I stood and walked over to the other side of the bed, standing right in front of her. I lowered myself to my haunches, looking into her pale green eyes. “Lindsey, don’t you ever take the love that I have for you and fling it back in my face like that, do you understand?” Her eyes widened as she watched me. She nodded. “When you are released from this hospital, you are coming home with me. It has nothing to do with guilt; it has nothing to do with pity. It’s about love, Lindsey. I love you and I want to show

you just how much I love you. I don’t want you to stay with me until you’re healed. I want you to stay with me for as long as we love each other, okay?” She nodded again, a tear rolling down her cheek. I leaned in and kissed it away. “So, then, we’re on the same page?” “Yes, Taz,” she replied, softly.

CHAPTER 47 I had been out of the hospital and safely ensconced with Taz for more than a week. The doctor at Vanderbilt had referred me to a colleague of his located in D.C. for my follow-up care. The surgeon had explained to me that the internal healing had to be complete with no scar tissue present in order for the colostomy to be reversed. He was confident that I would be a prime candidate for the reversal, and it was fairly minor. I was to see the physician he referred me to in a few weeks for a re-check and pre-operative consultation. Mom was getting out of the hospital

today. Grandma had been taking care of Bryce at their home. Slate had been running himself ragged. I had visited her in the hospital the day we returned, but she had been heavily sedated. I wasn’t sure if she was even aware of my being there. I dressed in sweat pants, which was my usual garb these days with the colostomy bag attached. At least there was only one now. I had learned the second one was simply for the postoperative drainage. The surgeon had closed that one off a couple of days prior to my release. All I needed to do for it was to keep antibiotic cream on the sutures until fully healed.

Taz was a nag about all of that stuff. He reminded me of a mother hen at times, but I liked that he fussed over me. I felt safe with him. We cuddled all of the time. When we slept in his bed, he was always curled around me protectively. He didn’t let me out of his sight. I did insist on privacy in the bathroom. I didn’t feel comfortable showering with him any longer because of the obvious. He rolled his eyes at my insistence, but I held my ground. I pulled one of his clean FBI hoodies from the drawer and put it on. It was big, bulky and it swallowed me up, but it made me feel secure at the same time.

I brushed my hair and surveyed myself in the mirror. Most of the scars had healed on the outside. The marks from the beating Kyzer had given me with the belt had faded into nearly invisible lines. The scars inside were going to take a lot longer. Taz had asked me several times if I wanted to talk about it with him. I had declined. I knew he thought it was therapeutic, he was a Psych major for Chrissake, but it was too soon, the memories were too raw. He told me when I was ready he would be there to listen. Truthfully, I wasn’t sure I would ever be ready, and if I was, I wasn’t sure Taz would be the one I needed to tell.

He popped his head into the bedroom, he was already dressed and waiting. “Ready, babe?” “Yep,” I replied, smiling. It was the first part of March and the hint of spring was in the air. It had seemed like a lifetime had transpired in the last six weeks. I was anxious to see Bryce, Grandma and my mother. It seemed as if Bryce had grown inches when I saw him. He was running around, excited about all the attention he was getting. I figured Grandma had been spoiling him rotten since she had been here. Mom immediately came to me,

hugging me tightly to her. She seemed fine. Her pregnancy was showing. “Oh, Lindsey,” she said, kissing my cheek, “I was so scared, honey. I am so very sorry for the way I behaved with you. Will you forgive me, please?” “Mom,” I said, my eyes welling up, “there is nothing to forgive. You were under a lot of stress and you were ill; I understand that.” “Are you sure?” I nodded. She immediately turned to Taz. “Trace,” she said very solemnly, “I will never be able to show my gratitude to you. You saved my daughter’s life. I am convinced of that. How can I possibly thank you?”

“You just did, Sammie,” he said, giving her a warm hug. “And what is this Slate tells me about you leaving the bureau? That’s crazy, Taz.” My head snapped up immediately to look at Taz. “What?” My mother immediately realized I wasn’t clued in. “I’m sorry,” she said, “I didn’t realize.” “Lindsey, I’ll tell you about it later when we’re at home.” We spent the rest of the afternoon catching up. Mom was still mourning the loss of one twin, but she placated herself

with the knowledge that the remaining baby was no longer at risk, and her pregnancy was going to be fairly normal from here on out. She informed everyone that she carried another boy. Her due date was July 26th, close to my birthday. Grandma announced that she had purchased a condo in Falls Church. She intended on spending more time with family. She was keeping her condo in Indy so she could spend time there when necessary. She was now Chairman of the Board at Banion, and hinted that she was hopeful I would consider taking an executive position with the company upon graduation. The board had

appointed an interim President and General Manager on a two-year contract. I looked over at Taz, wondering how he felt about what my grandmother had offered. He smiled, pulling me closer to him. It seemed we had some things to discuss. Grandma had prepared a feast for dinner. It was the first time ever that all of the people I loved were gathered at the same table. Grandma said grace, thanking the Lord for making her family once again safe. When Taz and I got home, I knew it was time for us to talk. We had things to figure out. He was stretched out on his

lazy boy with a game on when I came out in my pajamas. I crawled up in his lap, cupping his chin in my fingers and kissing his lips softly. “Can we talk?” I felt him tense beneath me. He muted the television. “Sure, babe.” “Let’s start with your leaving the bureau. How is it that my mother knew about that and I didn’t?” “It’s my decision to make, Lindsey.” “I get that, Taz, but why didn’t you want me to know?” “I wasn’t purposely keeping it from you.” “Oh, bullshit,” I said. “What’s going

on, Taz?” He was angry now, not at me, but with the whole topic of the FBI. “What’s going on is that I don’t think I can continue as an agent when my level of commitment to the bureau has significantly been affected.” “Because of me?” “Not because of you, per se, Lindsey, but because of what might have happened to you if I had followed procedure, which of course, I didn’t. You would have died.” “I don’t understand.” “I didn’t follow protocol. I took things into my own hands, representing the bureau while I did so. I obtained

warrants by the grace of one sympathetic judge, and I didn’t alert my superiors as to my actions.” “Superiors? As in Slate?” “For starters, yeah.” “So, are you telling me that you got into deep shit with Slate because you saved me?” “More or less.” I thought back to this afternoon. Slate had been quiet. There hadn’t been the normal banter back and forth between him and Taz. “So, what does that mean?” “It means I can accept a formal reprimand that goes into my permanent file, take a sixty-day, unpaid suspension and pretty much kiss my dream of going

into the BAU good-bye or walk away. I am choosing to walk away.” “I don’t understand this, Taz. The net result was that you saved my life, captured a fugitive from justice, arrested Kyzer and killed their plans to manufacture some sort of illegal amphetamine. I would think a commendation was more in order.” “Baby, with the FBI it is black and white: the end doesn’t justify the means. It’s as simple as that.” “But you believe in the FBI. It’s what you do, Taz. I remember you telling me the first time I was here about how much it meant to you.” “You mean more,” he replied,

simply. “Oh, no you don’t,” I snapped, getting his attention. “You are not going to use me as your reason for walking away.” I launched myself out of his lap and went to the bedroom. He was following closely behind. “What the hell?” he said, his hands on his hips, staring at me. God, I loved him but he was not going to put this on me! “I love you, Trace. I love what you did for me. I’m fucking glad you broke the rules, because now I can stand here and tell you in person that I love you. But, you knew what you were doing at the time, and you knew that there would

be hell to pay, so pay it.” “What if I don’t believe in it anymore?” “That’s bullshit and you know it. This is about your pride and you damn well need to admit it. I am not going to let you make me the reason you walked away from your career.” He raked his hands through his hair as if I was infuriating him. The truth was he was infuriating me. He was acting like a spoiled kid that didn’t want to do the punishment that came with the deed. “You just need to man up,” I scoffed, knowing that statement would royally piss him off. I didn’t care. “What did you say?”

I looked up into his blazing green eyes and smirked. “You heard me.” He started towards me with a look on his face. I knew the look and my butterflies surged. He was going to show me how much of a man he was and I was ready. Taz and I had done nothing since my injury. I needed to know that he still found me sexy despite all that had happened. He stopped in front of me, his face softening. He pulled me against him and stroked my hair gently. “I’m sorry, baby girl,” he said softly. “I didn’t mean to upset you with this. The most important thing is for you to get well, okay?”

He’s not going to touch me again. I nodded against him, feeling comforted but not sexy. “Let me get you tucked into bed. I’ll be in after the game.” He tucked me in, kissing my lips and turned the light out, going back to the living room. I knew he would come to bed later, when I was asleep. This was the routine now. I realized the whole topic of sex had become taboo. I couldn’t blame him for being repulsed. I was damaged in so many ways.

CHAPTER 48 (TAZ) I grabbed a beer from the fridge and settled back down in front of the television. There was a wall-mounted, flat screen in the bedroom which would be way more comfortable for me, but I couldn’t risk being that close to Lindsey. Hell, I wasn’t even sure what I was watching on television. It certainly held little interest for me. All I could think about was her. The little shit had gotten in my face good this evening. She told it like it was, and she was right. All I had ever wanted to do was be an agent. I loved the bureau. It

was my passion. I couldn’t get past the part about Slate writing me up, though. I’m sure Sammie didn’t know, but even if she did, it wouldn’t have made a difference. He was obligated as my senior officer to administer disciplinary action, when required. I had clearly broken procedure even after he had warned against it. Did I regret it? Hell, no. Would I do things any differently if faced with the same situation? Hell, no. Was it Slate’s responsibility to treat me the same as any other subordinate agent? Yes, it was. I thought of how fired up Lindsey had gotten with me earlier, and I had to smile.

She had given me one of her haughty “I dare you” looks and I had nearly toppled on top of her to show her just how good I could man up. I had to remind myself that she was fragile right now. I couldn’t do anything that might trigger a memory of what that sick bastard had done to her. Lindsey had made no overtures with me for sex. I knew she was selfconscious about the colostomy bag. The doctor had told me that we could resume sex. Kyzer hadn’t damaged her female parts. I just wasn’t sure how much other stuff he had done to her. She wouldn’t open up about it all. I worried that the sight of my dick might send her into

hysterics. I was at a loss as to how to approach her. I decided I would let her set the pace. I was bored with whatever was on the television so I shut it off. She was most likely asleep. I took a warm shower and dressed in some PJ bottoms and a tee-shirt. I crawled in bed next to her, positioning myself on my side, and pulled her in against me. I was always careful to make sure my hand didn’t touch the area near her colostomy. I felt her stir against me. She placed her hand on my arm. “Taz?” “Yeah, babe?” “Why don’t you want to touch me

anymore?” I struggled to sit up. I turned the lamp on next to the bed. She sat up across from me on the bed, waiting for an answer. “Lindsey, sweetie, I want to touch you very much. I wasn’t sure how you felt about that. We haven’t talked about what happened to you.” “Why do we have to talk about it, Taz? I just want to forget it, please.” “I understand that, baby, but I’m not sure how you might react emotionally to the things that we do sexually.” “So, you want me to rehash it for you, Taz? You want me to let you know that the promise was kept?”

“What promise?” “The promise that Kyzer would never, ever touch my pussy? Remember?” And I did remember. I remembered making her promise me that the night she became mine. “Well, he didn’t touch me there, Taz. He raped me, but not there.” “Lindsey - please.” “No - you are hell bent on me talking about it so let me talk about it, okay?” “He drugged me at the restaurant and somehow got me to Georgia in his private plane. I woke up in that dark, dank room that evening. He accused me of being a liar, and a prick-tease so he

whipped me over and over again with his leather belt while Susanne watched. Then he shoved his dick into my mouth and made me suck him. Is that graphic enough for you?” I was on my feet, pacing and raking my hands through my hair. “Lindsey, stop.” “No, Taz, I’m going to tell you everything. Susanne sucked his dick in front of me. He told her he was finishing inside of me. He rammed it into my backside over and over again. I begged and pleaded with him to stop, but he didn’t. I prayed for death in those moments, Taz. I would have welcomed death. I knew I was bleeding when I blacked out. I heard him say something

about it to Susanne. They didn’t care. They left me there bleeding.” She stopped for a moment as if gathering her thoughts. “When I woke up I had been flipped onto my back. I knew I had wet myself in that bed. Kyzer and I talked; I bluffed him about that formula just so he wouldn’t torture me anymore and he didn’t. He knew I was burning up, but he left me. That’s all I remember.” I went over to the side of the bed now. I dropped to my knees, burying my face into her lap. I didn’t want her to see my tears. I felt her fingers stroking my hair. It was my turn to tell her about that day and what it had done to me.

“I can’t get the picture out of my head when I found you that day,” I rasped. “It was so fucking quiet. You weren’t moving. I couldn’t tell if you were even breathing. I was paralyzed in fear, Lindsey; fear that I had lost you. Hardesty went over to check on you and I didn’t want him touching you, of seeing you. I moved him out of the way. I cut the ropes that tied you. I wrapped you up in the blanket so that no one could see what that fucking animal had done to you.” She lowered her face and kissed my forehead, her fingers still combing through my hair. “I remember at the first hospital the

way the doctors rushed to stabilize you. I remember praying to God to please let you live, to not take you from me. If only I had gotten to you sooner, Lindsey. If only I had shared with you what I knew about Kyzer Stanfield, you would never have put yourself near him like that. It is my fault you went through all of this.” “So, what? You’re going to continue beating yourself up, Taz? It’s not your fault. It’s not my fault. There are evil things in this world and I just happened across one. If you and I can’t get past this, then Kyzer will have taken more than he already has.” “What do you mean?” “I mean you won’t touch me, you avoid it. Is it because you think I’m dirty

now? Because if so, I promise you, I have scrubbed my skin so hard it’s bled in places. If you can’t get past what Kyzer did, we have nothing.”

CHAPTER 49 I could tell by the expression on Taz’s face that I had hit a nerve with what I had just said. He climbed up on the bed next to me, taking my hands into his strong ones, his thumbs rubbing my fingers. “How can you think that, Lindsey? How can you possibly think I consider you damaged or unclean? I want to make love to you, baby girl. I just don’t want to hurt you.” “Then let’s take it slow, Taz, but I need to feel your love.” He pulled his tee shirt up over his head. I pulled my pajama top up over

mine. We sat facing each other on the bed. His hands gently reached over, cupping my chin and pulling my face towards his. We kissed, gently at first, and then allowed the passion to slowly mount. Our tongues explored each other as if it were the first time, as if it was unexplored territory. His fingers softly caressed a breast, his thumb circling the nipple and bringing it to erection, then moving to the other. My hands were on his back, rubbing his muscles, his beautifully tattooed skin, loving the feel of him against me. He pushed me back gently so that his

lips and tongue could capture my breasts. He nipped gently at the nubs, his tongue circling them and making my skin tingle. “Umm,” he breathed, huskily, “I want inside of you, baby girl.” I raised myself up and he lowered my PJ bottoms. I still had my panties on, as I scooted off of him, so that he could lower his drawstring pants down and off. His erect shaft sprang free. I wrapped my fingers around it, lowering my lips to taste it. There was no memory of Kyzer at all. This was familiar to me. My tongue ran the length of it up and down, back and forth. I swirled around the swollen head of his cock, loving the feel and the

taste of him, because he was mine. I heard his sharp intake of breath as my teeth gently nibbled the very sensitive area at the tip. I loved it that Taz had not been circumcised. Perhaps that was the reason there were no comparisons made between him and Kyzer. I felt his fingers pushing the elastic leg of my panties aside to gain entrance. He gently plied the sensitive folds of my womanhood, bringing me waves of pleasure at his touch. This was hot. I felt him insert a finger and then the other. I was immediately wet for him. I moaned softly as his fingers hit my special place. “I know, baby,” he soothed. “I want

it, too.” He lifted me up, and placed me over his erection. My panties pushed aside, gave him access to where he wanted to be. He lowered me gently down onto his erect cock. We were facing each other, my legs parted and wrapped around his hips. I heard his soft, husky moan as he filled me with himself. I felt my muscles flexing, squeezing him instinctively. His hands were on my hips, raising me up and down the length of him. My hands were on his shoulders, my fingernails digging into his skin with the intensity of the pleasure. I rode him up and down as he continued to thrust himself inside of me

harder now. My fingernails dug deeper as I reached the peak and began the sweet, descent into my orgasm. He was right there with me, moaning my name, telling me how much he loved me. We climaxed together, our lips once again finding each other as we rode it out, one pleasurable release after another. Afterwards, I lifted myself up and off of him, and curled up next to him. Our skin was damp from our lovemaking. I traced his treasure trail with my fingers. His arms encircled me protectively. He kissed the top of my head over and over again. “I love you, Lindsey.”

“I love you, Trace.” I knew that from here on out, Taz and I would be fine. I believed all of the ugly things that Kyzer had done to me would fade in time, just like the scars of his beating had faded. The love that had blossomed between Trace Matthews and me was too strong to be destroyed by that one awful day in Georgia. The day that Kyzer Stanfield tried to take something that was not his.

CHAPTER 50 Taz had sucked it up and after his sixty-day suspension, and returned to the bureau. I was relieved. It would not have gone over well with me if he had walked away from the career that he considered his life-long dream. Things between Taz and Slate seemed to be back to normal. I had transferred to online classes through U of V so it worked out well, I didn’t have to leave home to attend. My degree program was back on track. It was now mid-April, and I had recently undergone reversal of the colonoscopy. It was relatively minor

surgery, but for the next few months, I had to monitor my diet and introduce different foods very gradually. Taz was attending classes on campus this quarter, so he was gone a couple of nights during the week at school from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. I finished up on-line, submitting the unit quiz and composition for the week. I powered off my laptop, standing up and stretching. The clock over the mantle in the living room read 9:16 p.m. Taz would be home in a little over an hour. I could handle that. I was uneasy on the nights he was gone. I knew it was something I needed to come to terms with, in particular, due

to his career. Having been back with the bureau for a few weeks now, he could be going out on assignment any time and be gone for days or weeks. I went to the kitchen and poured myself a glass of wine. I returned to the living room and powered on the television to kill time. I heard the crack of thunder outside. A spring thunderstorm was brewing; the wind had kicked up significantly. I could hear branches scraping against the roof on the front porch. As it turned out, Taz owned his duplex. He had renters upstairs who were never home it seemed. I almost wished they were home right now. The occasional sound of their footsteps

above or muted sounds of their television or stereo would be a comfort to me at the moment. I pulled the throw from the back of the sofa up over me as I tried to focus on the program I was watching. It was just 9:30 p.m. The blare of that horrible sound of the emergency broadcast system came over the television causing me to jump. My heart thudded. Jesus Christ! The sound of that alert was enough to cause a person to have a coronary. I heard the female “computer” voice come across the speakers: “The national weather bureau in Fairfax, Virginia has issued a severe

thunderstorm warning for the following counties: Montgomery County, Maryland, Prince George County, Maryland, Fairfax County, Virginia, and Arlington County, Virginia until 11:30 p.m. tonight. Heavy rain, with hail, high winds with gusts up to forty miles per hour and possible power outages could take place. The elements are present for producing tornado or tornado-like conditions. Please stay tuned for further weather monitoring.” Beep, beep, beep. Well, this was great. Now I was going to worry about Taz being out in this shit. I went to the kitchen and refilled my wine glass, scurrying back to the comfort

of the sofa, wrapping myself up tightly and staying glued to the television. I channel surfed and found a rerun of “Criminal Minds” on the ID station. Great - fucking great…I kept surfing. I could now hear the heavy rain droplets pounding against the living room window. It got louder and louder and I figured it had turned to hail. I got up, twisting the wand to open the blinds and saw the tiny balls of ice hitting the glass and bouncing off. I went over and switched the porch light on. The night was so dark, shrouded in pure blackness. A flash of lightening crossed the dark sky, seconds

later the clap of thunder followed. The lights inside flickered off and then came back within a few seconds. I went back to the sofa and snuggled against the pillows. Another flash and the lights went out. I heard the splintering of the tree out front just before the loud clap of thunder sounded. Shit! I sat in the darkness and contemplated my next move. I could sit in the dark and wait for Taz, or try and feel my way into the kitchen for a flashlight. I didn’t relish sitting in the dark by myself. It was reminiscent of my ordeal with Kyzer. I shivered, opting to get up and feel my way into the kitchen drawer where

we kept the flashlight. Several flashes of lightening outside coming through the windows actually helped guide me through the hallway to the kitchen. I felt along the countertop until I got to the microwave. The drawer was right below that. My hand groped for the below the counter for the drawer handle. I pulled it open, my fingers feeling around inside until I located the flashlight. I switched it on and breathed a sigh of relief when it illuminated. I made my way back into the living room where the sound of the rain and hail still pelting against the glass was even louder. I heard a tapping sound now. It was

coming from the front door. I lifted the blinds on the window beside the massive oak door to peer out onto the porch. There was no one there. I scurried back to the sofa, and dove over the arm wrapping the blanket around me. I hated being alone here in the semi-darkness without Taz. Why in the hell couldn’t he take online classes like I was? Then we wouldn’t need to be apart at night. I realized how pathetic that sounded even to me. Taz had been nagging me to see a therapist since the ordeal. I had told him I was fine. I usually was fine; not tonight though. I huddled on the couch gazing over to the window, waiting to see the lights of

his truck coming down the street, pulling up the driveway into the garage. As the next flash of lightening illuminated the sky outside, I saw him. It was first a shadowy figure, then as the sky lit up; I could see his features as he peered into our living room window. It was Kyzer Stanfield! I screamed, leaping from the sofa, the flashlight fell to the floor. I ran to the bedroom, pulling the door shut behind me and cowered in the corner of the room. My arms were wrapped around my legs, my chin resting on my knees. I rocked back and forth with the spring thunderstorm raging outside until Taz

found me there what seemed like an eternity later. I felt him lift me from the corner, wrapping me in his strong arms, and trying to make sense of my hysterical blubbering. He finally convinced me that Kyzer Stanfield was nowhere near our home; he was incarcerated waiting to stand trial. Taz assured me that I was safe. I was beginning to think that I would never feel totally safe. “Lindsey,” Taz said gently, “I want you to see someone, baby. I know that you think you are fine, but you’re not. You rarely want to leave the house even with me. I come home tonight and find you cowering in the corner. It’s time you

faced what happened, baby girl.” I was on his lap, my arms wrapped around his neck, my face buried in his strong chest. I knew he was right. I nodded against him. “Alright, then,” he said, kissing my hair. “We’ll find someone tomorrow, okay?” “Okay,” I replied. Taz lit some of the aromatherapy candles in our room. The power had not come back on but it didn’t matter. I felt safe and comforted now. We crawled beneath the sheets of the bed, the storm still crashing down around us, flashes of lightening coming through the stained glass window over

the bed. We were both naked, wrapped around each other like every other night. I moved on top of him, straddling his mid-section with my legs. I lowered my face to his and we kissed. “I need you to be rough with me,” I whispered against his lips. “I need you to ravage me.” I watched as one hand clasped his cock that was already erect. His other arm lifted me up, and turned me so that my back was to him. His fingers plied the folds of my sex, fingering me roughly as I quickly grew wet for him. I felt his hands clasp each of my hips, lifting me up and settling me down onto his shaft. He was fully inside of me

now, as his hips bucked up and down and my legs were folded up on each side of him. I swiveled my hips, riding him up and down, fast and rough, crying out with pleasure. “Lean forward,” he instructed, and I did. His hands roughly clasped the cheeks of my ass as he moved me up and down, back and forth. I felt the palm of his hand as he slapped my ass, the sting of his skin against mine, again and again. “More?” he asked. “Oh, yes,” I said. And he delivered more stinging slaps to my sensitive skin that was warm and flushed pink now.

Taz raised me up and off of him, I whined. “I want to see your face when you come,” he said, turning me to face him, and lowering me once again onto his hardened cock. “I love watching you come, baby.” I rocked up and down on his shaft, bending over so my breasts were brushing against him. His hands clasped them roughly, massaging the nipples with his fingertips, pinching them until I moaned with the painful pleasure. I was whimpering now, ready to come and he knew it. He bucked me up and down until we both screamed out in pleasure as our orgasms unraveled

together. Afterwards, I cuddled up under his arm, my fingertips lightly tracing his bellybutton. “I love you forever, Taz.” “I love you longer, Linds.”

CHAPTER 51 I was lying on my back on one of the deck chairs by the side of the swimming pool at Darcy’s house. She had given me an early birthday gift; a string bikini that she told me I totally rocked. It was July 4th weekend and I was hanging with Darcy. We had been hanging with each other quite a bit as of late. That was because both Darin and Taz were working on a case, together. They had been in Detroit for the past three weeks. I had heard from Taz last night. The assignment was wrapping up and he thought they’d be home this evening.

Having Darin gone for three weeks totally flipped Darcy out. I told her she needed to get used to it. She said Darin had been as excited as a kid at Christmas with getting a real assignment with Special Agent Matthews. According to Darcy, Taz was a legend for what had gone down in Marietta, Georgia nearly six months ago. “Your tummy looks as flat and sexy as before,” Darcy commented, taking her place on the chaise lounge next to me. “You’d never know you had that colonoscopy. There is no scar or anything.” “Colostomy,” I corrected, looking at her from beneath my sunglasses.

“Whatever, the point is, you are good as new.” “I’ve been blessed,” I admitted. “Most of the scars have vanished.” “What do you mean most of the scars? I don’t see a one.” “I’m not talking the physical scars, Darce. The psychological ones run much deeper. Taz was right about that.” “So, have you finished up with the counseling?” “Yep,” I said. “Dr. Beatty thinks we have dealt with the demons and I’m good to go.” “Speaking of demons, when is Kyzer and Susanne’s trial?” “It’s not scheduled until this fall. I’m

not worried about it. Dr. Beatty thinks I’m strong enough to face the trial.” “And what does Dr. Matthews say?” she smirked. “He concurs. He’s been my best medicine all through this, anyway.” “So, did you break down and spoil the surprises you have for him?” she asked, eying my new belly-button ring. “Nope, I wanted it to be a surprise, remember? You’re the one that can’t stand surprises.” “Let me see if you’re all healed up back there.” I rolled onto my side, presenting my butt to Darcy as I lowered the small piece of material that was covering it. “That looks so good,” she said. “Taz

is going to love it.” “He better, because if he doesn’t, I’m letting him know it was your idea.” Darcy had convinced me to get a tat on my right butt cheek. It was the Tasmanian devil cartoon, with the name “Taz” scrolled underneath. I knew he would love it. I kissed two fingers and touched the tattoo, giving my Taz a kiss. Darcy moaned, rolling her eyes. “You guys are so freaking in love,” she said, smiling. “So, what’s wrong with that?” “Nothing at all. I’m kind of jealous, actually.” “Jealous? Why would you be jealous? You and Darin love each

other.” “We do,” she admitted, leaning back and pulling her sunglasses down from the top of her head where they had been perched. “But you guys are so intense with your love. I mean really intense.” “We’ve been through a lot together,” I said with a shrug. “That’s probably the reason. We’re about to go through some new stuff, actually.” “Oh, really? Anything you want to share with your BFF.” “I really shouldn’t before I share it with Taz, but I could use your opinion, I suppose.” “Okay, spill.” “I have one more surprise for Taz when he gets home. I’m pregnant.”

“What?” she shrieked, ripping her sunglasses off to stare at me. “How did that happen?” “How do you think, Darcy?” I laughed. “I mean you guys weren’t being careful, using something?” “Most of the time,” I replied. “Sometimes we just kind of got carried away. I guess we thought the odds were on our side.” “You don’t seem very flipped-out about it.” “I’m not,” I replied, rubbing some sunscreen on my face. “So, you’re not worried that Taz will be upset?”

“I guess it’s like this, Darcy. If Taz is upset then he’s not the Taz that I know and love. I may not always be the best at judging people, case in point: Kyzer Shitfield, but I feel pretty good about knowing Taz’s character.” “So, tell me, how are you going to give him the good news?” “Well, I’ve been thinking about that. I’m thinking about making a nice, romantic dinner for us. Then saying something about how much we love one another.” “Yeah, yeah,” Darcy said, literally on the edge of her chaise hanging on my every word. “And then asking what he thought

about our love plus one.” “Love plus one, hmm, I like that, Linds. I think it’s perfect. So, when are you going to tell him?” “Well, now that you know, I suppose tonight when he gets home. I know you can’t keep a damn thing from Darin. So, do me a favor?” “Of course, what?” “Keep your pie-hole shut until at least tomorrow, okay?” “You got it.” “And if Taz chooses to tell Darin in the next day or two, tell him to please act surprised?” “Absolutely,” she said, grinning. “Thank you.” “So, when is your due date?”

“December 18th.” “I’m so excited,” she said, giggling. “Can I tell Jill?” “Have you even talked to Jill?” “Yeah, we keep in touch. You know she’s engaged to Gabe, right?” “Yeah, have they set a date yet?” “Next summer. She’s moved in with him. You’re taking the rest of your schooling on-line. Sure is lonely around the old place.” “For crying out loud, Darcy, why don’t you finish your degree on line? I mean, really, you’d be closer to Darin.” “I’m thinking about it,” she replied. “It’s just a little harder to bribe male professors when you’re not smack, dab

in front of them with a push-up bra and low cut sweater on.” “Or you could just opt to do your assignments on time and study for your tests.” “Yeah, I guess that is an option as well.” “So, when do you think you and Taz will get married?” “Marriage?” Now it was my turn to whip my sunglasses off and gape at her. “Who said anything about marriage?” “Well, gee,” she replied, rolling her eyes. “With the baby coming and all, I just assumed that would be the natural progression of things.” “Marriage has not been discussed between Taz and me up to this point and

I don’t see why that should change.” “I don’t know,” Darcy replied, “Taz may feel differently about that. He is supporting you and all.” Now Darcy had clearly hit a nerve. “Hey, I have my own funds. I have the money Mom put away for my college once she sold the house in Indy. My tuition is cheaper taking these on-line classes, so I contribute. He’s not paying my way.” “Okay, maybe not right now, but what about after you graduate or the money runs out?” “My grandmother wants me to take a position at Banion.” “I see, so you’ll be in Indianapolis,

and Taz will be here. May I ask where the baby will be?” “Darcy,” I said, plainly irritated, “we have plenty of time to work out the kinks.” The truth was I hadn’t given a thought to those “kinks” myself, other than to brush them from my mind whenever they popped in. “Hey,” she said, interrupting my thoughts, “what about Taz’s family? Are they close by?” Taz was fairly closed-mouthed about his family. I hadn’t seen or heard him talk to them on the phone. It seemed as if they simply didn’t keep in touch. I had questioned him a few times on the subject. He claimed they simply

weren’t close. There was no estrangement. He had one older brother and a younger sister. His parents ran a business of some sort in Napa Valley, California. “His family lives in Northern California. I gather they are not close.” “Well, that’s good. At least you won’t have any in-laws interfering in the mix.” “Hey, how is your mom doing?” “I talked to her this morning. Other than feeling like a beached whale, all is good.” “So, like you haven’t shared the news with her?” “No, Darce, just you up to this point.

Remember your promise.” “Yeah, yeah. Not to worry, Linds.” My cell phone sounded. I picked it up glancing at the screen and smiled. Darcy’s phone was now ringing too. Our G-men were coming home. “Hey,” I said into the phone, my butterflies fluttering. “Hey, baby girl, I’m on my way home and I’m horny.” “Oh, Taz,” I gushed, “You are so romantic.” I winked at Darcy. There was no need for her to know what he said. Darcy was giggling at her end with Darin. He had probably told her the exact same thing. “I’ll be there before you get there,” I

said. Darcy ended her call, sitting up and putting her sandals on. “Shit, I’ve got to head home. I need to get that romantic dinner started before Taz hits the door. He’s on his way already.” “Yeah, I’ve got to wax,” she replied, smiling. I gathered my all my stuff, shoving it into my knapsack. I pulled a tee shirt on over my skimpy bikini. “Thanks for the gift, Darce. Taz will love it.” “Call me tomorrow and give me the all clear to run my mouth, okay Linds?” “You got it,” I said, putting my flip-

flops on and heading towards her driveway. By the time I got home, I had exactly twenty minutes to get dinner going. I put a salad together, heated up some leftover mac and cheese, and put a couple of pork chops under the broiler on low heat. I set the table in the kitchen, pouring ice-water into the tumblers when I heard him come through the front door. “Hey babe,” he called out, coming down the hallway. “I’m in the kitchen,” I hollered back, checking the pork chops. “Mmm, something smells good,” he said, coming into the kitchen. He saw me, wearing nothing but the tee shirt I

had thrown over my suit, and the flip flops. “Where were you when I called?” he asked, popping a cherry tomato from the salad into his mouth. “Oh, I was swimming at Darcy’s,” I replied. “Give me a minute to change.” I went into the bedroom, shrugging the tee shirt off and over my head, not realizing Taz had followed me in there until I heard the long, low cat whistle he gave me when he saw my gift from Darcy. “That is some skimpy suit,” he said, walking towards me, the intent in his eyes very clear. “Taz,” I started, as he reached over

and untied the strings in the back, my top falling to the floor. “What?” he asked, right up on me, his hands, pulling at the strings on each side of the bottom, releasing the small, triangular pieces of material that covered the front, and barely the back of my ass. “Well I’ll be damned,” he said, a wide grin spreading across his face. He was checking out my new tat, and I knew he loved it. “What have you been up to, baby girl?” I turned around to face him, showing off my new piercing. “Just wanting to look sexy for my man,” I replied, wrapping my arms around his neck, pressing myself into

him. “You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you,” he said, his hands framing my face as he lowered his lips to mine, kissing them over and over very softly. “Umm,” he moaned, “I have missed you so much, baby. You have no idea.” “Maybe you should shut the broiler off, Taz. This might take a while.”

CHAPTER 51 An hour and two mind-blowing orgasms later, Taz and I rolled away from each other. “Tell Darcy I totally approve of your birthday gift,” he said, giving me his sexy grin, “and let her know that I loved the surprises.” “Did that work for you, Agent Matthews?” “Oh, absolutely, baby.” “And I still have one more surprise left for you.” “Really?” “Yeah, but you know, it can wait. Our pork chops are probably dried out.”

“Who cares,” he replied, pulling me against him. “You want to take a shower before dinner?” “Yeah, in a minute, honey. I need to tell you something.” He was on his back; his head perched up on his elbow. I scooted closer on my belly and laid my head on his chest. “Yeah, okay, sweetie. Is there a problem?” “It’s about the last surprise I have for you. It’s not a problem for me at all. I’m not sure about you, though.” He cocked an eyebrow at me in confusion. Here goes, I guess.

“Taz, you’re going to be a daddy in mid-December and I hope like hell you’re happy about it.” There, I blurted it out, swiftly and concisely. Now I needed to wait for the reaction. I watched his expression as it went from shock to surprise to a wall-to-wall smile. He pulled me on top of him, gathering my hair at the nape of my neck and pulling my face to his, smothering me with kisses. “Of course, I’m happy, baby girl. Why wouldn’t I be happy? I’m just a little confused. I thought we were being careful.”

“Well, statistically, we were, Taz. I figured it had to have happened just that one time when my going back on the pill had only taken place like two days before.” “Honey, you told me it wasn’t your fertile period.” I shrugged. “I didn’t think it was, Taz.” “Have you been to the doctor?” I nodded. "I went as soon as I missed a period. I stopped the pill and went to him to make sure if I was pregnant, having taking the pill wouldn’t have put my pregnancy at risk.” “What did he say?”

“He said not to take anymore and see if I missed another period, and I did.” “So, when is our baby due, exactly?” “December 18th. Right before Christmas.” “What a great Christmas present for us both,” he said, smiling. “I love you so much, Taz. I am so glad you aren’t upset.” “Lindsey, honey, I love you, too. Why would you think I wouldn’t be happy? We just need to get our wedding date set.” Uh oh. “Taz, that discussion has no place at the moment. I like things the way they are, okay?”

“So, are you saying you don’t want to get married?” “I’m just saying that the discussion hasn’t surfaced up to this point, and it is not going to surface now just because I’m pregnant, okay? I want to finish college, Taz. I want to see where my career goes.” “I presumed you would work somewhere in the area, do you have different plans?” “Well, not exactly, honey. But my grandmother does have a well-paying position as an executive at Banion waiting for me when I graduate, remember? I mean it’s a family business and I’m she would like to pass the

legacy on.” “So, what are you saying - we’ll have some sort of a commuter relationship?” “Of course not, baby. We’ll work something out. We always do, don’t we?” He broke out into a smile again. “You totally have me wrapped around your finger, Lindsey, and you know it.” “No way, baby. Everyone knows you’re the boss, Taz.” “Like hell,” he said, pulling me on top of him. We started kissing and getting ready for another round of love-making when Taz’s phone vibrated on the night stand. “Shit, it’s Slate. I have to get this,

babe.” He grabbed his phone. “Yeah,” he said. There was a momentary pause. “Really? Right now? Okay, we’ll get ready and get over there.” He shut the phone off, pulling me with him off of the bed. “Let’s grab that shower quickly, sweetie. Slate said your mom went into labor. We’re going to the hospital.” Taz and I took a quick shower, thr ew clean clothes on, and headed out to Fairfax Hospital. By the time we arrived there, Mom had delivered a healthy baby boy; her single twin.

He was beautiful. Slate was holding him still dressed in scrubs. The baby had a mass of dark hair, and dark blue eyes. He was so alert. Mom had delivered without any anesthesia. She said it had been a piece of cake. She was overwhelmed with joy; still I knew that she was thinking there should be two baby boys right now. “Can I hold him, Slate?” “Sure, Linds,” he said, carefully handing my new baby brother over to me. I cradled him in my arms, watching him watching me with his incredibly blue eyes. “Look, Taz,” I said. “Look at his perfect little fingers.” Taz was at my

side, admiring the baby right along with me. “What have you decided to name him?” I asked. “Sidney Banion Slater,” Mom announced proudly. “After your Granddaddy.” “Oh, Mom,” I said, “I bet Granddaddy is looking down from heaven right now and is so proud of his namesake. I bet Grandma will be happy about your choice of names as well.” “Yep,” she said, chuckling, “she has another one to spoil. She is bringing Bryce up for sibling visiting hours later.” I wondered how Bryce was going to take to having a new baby brother. He

was used to being a one-man-show with everyone’s attention. This could prove to be interesting. We stayed for another half-hour and then left, telling them we’d be back tomorrow. Taz put his arm around me on the way to the car. “I’m surprised you didn’t tell your mom about our news,” he said. “I thought about it, but this is her and Slate’s day. We’ll have a better opportunity to tell them the good news another time.” “Hey,” I said, “I had this romantic dinner planned to give you the news and that all went astray. I’m hungry. Feed me, baby.”

“You’ve got it.” We stopped at a Sonic restaurant on the way home and got curbside service. I ordered a triple burger, fries and a thick, chocolate shake. “Jesus Christ,” Taz commented, shaking his head, “I can see you’re going to be taking this ‘eating-for-two’ thing seriously.” “Shut up,” I said, laughing, stuffing another French fry into my mouth. “You’ll love me no matter what.” “You’ve got that right,” he sighed, leaning over to kiss me. “I love you so fucking much, Lindsey.” “I know you do, baby. It makes me so happy.”

“So, are you really happy, Linds? Are things perfect for you now?” “I don’t believe in perfection, Taz, but I would say that I am happier now than I have ever been. I mean, the only thing that still bothers me is the not knowing where my dad is, or if he is even alive.” “I know,” he said, shaking his head. “That story Susanne gave is pretty sketchy. They supposedly got separated in Mexico and she ended up with all of his belongings when he didn’t return from his meeting with the ‘Federales’? I don’t buy that is all she knows. I think she knows more. But, you have to understand how corrupt it is in Mexico,

Lindsey. I hate to say this, babe, but you have to consider the fact your father may not be alive.” “I’ve thought of that often, Taz. I truly believe that if he had come back into the U.S. I would have heard something from him somehow.” “I know that is a hard thing to deal with.” “There are just so many answers that I will never have; explanations that I feel he owed me.” “I doubt if he could even explain it to himself, Lindsey, let alone to you. He got caught up in it. He was not the person you thought he was.” “I know. It’s still difficult, though.” “Do you feel safe again, sweetie?”

I nodded. “I do, Taz. Dr. Beatty made me realize that I couldn’t depend on you or anyone else to make me feel safe. It needed to come from within me, my own sense of security. I know I was pretty clingy to you right after all of this happened. I am so glad you convinced me to get the therapy.” “I’m glad that it helped.” “I mean, I still worry when you’re out in the field, doing some covert stuff that you can’t even tell me about. I guess that’s the only fear I still have, but that is a natural fear Dr. Beatty explained. I can live with that as long as you promise me you’ll always come back to me.”

“I will always do my very best, Lindsey. You know that.” “So, am I ever going to meet your family, Taz? Are they even going to know they have a grandchild on the way?” “I know I haven’t told you much about them, Lindsey. Obviously, we’re not a close family, but it’s not like we’re estranged either. I think we should think about taking a trip to California after the baby arrives. I would like to surprise my folks with their first grandbaby.” “I’d like that,” I said, smiling over at him. “You can never have too much family." The thought of my father crossed

through my mind once again. I wondered what type of a grandfather he might have been. Later that evening, as Taz and I were lying in our bed, listening to the fireworks being set off all over the neighborhood, he pulled me to him once again with a question. “Do you want our baby to be a boy or a girl?” I thought about it for a couple of seconds and then answered honestly. “I know the proper thing to say is that I don’t care, as long as the baby is healthy, which of course, is my primary focus. But if I had my preference, I’d kind of like our first baby to be a girl.” “Me, too,” he said, smiling. “I want

to spoil her rotten and then give her three younger brothers to keep an eye on her.” “Three more?” “Yep. You got a problem with that?” “We’re going to need a bigger place, Taz.” We laughed together, diving under the covers together and playing until we finally fell asleep, wrapped in each other’s arms.

EPILOGUE December 12, 2014 Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, Virginia I had been pushing for what seemed like hours even though by the clock on the wall opposite me indicated it had been more like twenty minutes. My mom was there next to me, dabbing my sweaty forehead with a cold, damp cloth. “Where in the hell is Taz?” I was gritting my teeth as the next contraction came over me. “Slate finally found him, honey. He is on his way.” “I don’t get it,” I hissed. “You

delivered two babies and Slate made it both times.” “You know how it is, Lindsey, these things happen. You’re a little early, too.” I was clutching the rails of the hospital bed, my knuckles turning white. I wanted to cuss but I wasn’t comfortable doing that in front of my mother. I’d have no such concerns doing that if Taz were here like he was supposed to be. I was mentally flipping him off at that moment, with love, of course. Just then my baby’ s sperm donor popped in, dressed in his scrubs with a big smile on his face. “It’s about damn time, Taz,” I

snipped. My mother was anxious to be relieved of her bedside post as labor coach, I could tell. This transition stage was bloody hell. “She’s allowed to push now,” she said, heading out. “When they check her, and can see a fifty-cent piece of the baby’s head, she will be taken to delivery. They’re out of birthing rooms. Take care of her, Taz. I’ll be in the waiting room with Slate.” Whoosh, she was gone. “Somebody hasn’t been a good patient,” he chided, waggling his finger at me as he walked closer and leaned over the hospital bed. He pressed several kisses to my forehead.

“Ooh, you feel a little sweaty, babe.” “You think, Trace?” “Uh oh. You got that bulging-eye thing going on like when you’re pissed. I got here as soon as I could, sweetie. Were you nasty to your mom? She was like a bat out of hell getting outta here.” I rolled my eyes, bracing myself for the next contraction which was right on top of me. “She’ll forgive me,” I said. “Holy Mother of Christ, here comes another one.” Taz held me up in a squatting position like we had learned in class. He coached me on my breathing, and as the contraction was winding down, he

squeezed my hand to start the relaxation breathing. “That’s my girl,” he said, soothing me. He rubbed my back and I actually started to feel more relaxed. His presence could do that at times. The nurse came in to check me. She announced that I could be moved to the delivery room. Hot damn! Taz held my hand as they wheeled my hospital bed down the busy corridor and into the delivery room. Like clockwork, the doctor was there and the nurses, getting everything ready to greet Baby Matthews. Taz and I didn’t know the sex of the baby. We both kind of liked surprises.

The room was well lit and sterile. I had wanted to do a water birth at home, but Taz had put the “ixnay” on that. I had read up on all of the natural stuff and it appealed to me. Taz claimed in a previous life I had been a ‘hippy’. I did, however, stand my ground with respect to not allowing the nursing staff to whisk Junior off as soon as he or she made their grand entrance from my womb, to be bathed, weighed, measured, and all of that shit. We were going to have the baby placed skin-to-skin on top of my stomach for the baby crawl. No bathing for the first six hours.

Everything was a go now, so with Taz’s help, I pushed full force to deliver. Several minutes later, I saw Taz’s face light up as the doctor assisted our baby into the world. The baby was placed on my tummy. The doctor was instructing Taz on how to snip the umbilical cord. I had never seen such a look of happiness on his face before. My Taz was a proud Daddy and that pleased me more than anything. “Well, honey?” I asked, waiting for him to fill me in. “We’ve got a daughter, Lindsey,” he said, beaming. “My baby girl has given me a baby girl.”

“But she doesn’t have any hair,” I commented, as if that rendered the baby’s gender as a girl null and void. “Some babies don’t,” he replied. “My little sister was bald as a melon and her hair is as thick as mine. She’ll grow hair, baby, don’t worry.” I was curious to see her face. I wondered if she would be all Taz, or all me, or a combination of us both. Mom’s babies were totally Slate. Taz got his digital camera out to film the baby as she snuggled on my stomach and started squirming. Her little legs were pushing her up and forward on my abdomen to my stomach. Her little feet were digging in to my pelvic region. The

doctor explained that helped to expel the placenta and stop bleeding. “What color are her eyes?” I asked Taz since he was close to her face. He bent down to look. “Blue,” he replied. “We both have green eyes,” I whined. “Honey,” the nurse interrupted, from down where she was assisting the doctor between my legs, “her true eye color won’t be evident for a few months.” I nodded, watching my baby girl squirm around on my belly. She was on a mission; that much was obvious. Her little head bobbed, her fists clenched in and out as she pushed her way up towards my breasts.

Taz and I watched fascinated as we observed everything we had seen in the videos that had been presented in the birthing classes we attended. She moved towards my right breast, her fingers clutching the nipple as she pulled herself towards it. With strength and tenacity, she moved her head towards it, and her mouth opened wide as she latched on. She began to suckle contentedly, her tiny hands fisting my breast. “Wow,” Taz said, “she did that in less than ten minutes.” “I think she may be advanced,” I bragged, putting my arms around her bottom as she nursed.

She was making cute little sucking noises and baby sounds. The feeling of love I had for her was so overwhelming. The nurse came over and placed a light blanket over the baby to keep her warm as she was pressed skin-to-skin against me. She put a pink knit cap on her head. The baby nestled in to me and I knew I was in love with my beautiful daughter. She smelled so good, so naturally sweet. “Thank you, Trace,” I whispered, gently rubbing her back. “Thank you for my beautiful baby girl.” “It was my pleasure, Lindsey,” he said, taking his place on the hospital beside me.

“So, are we good to go with the name we picked out for a girl?” he asked. “They’re going to want it for her birth certificate. I looked down at her gently nursing. “Absolutely,” I replied. “It fits her perfectly, don’t you think?” “Harper Trace Matthews,” Taz said. “I like it. I’m glad we finally agreed on a name. That had been our one and only argument ever, the baby’s name. Taz had been set on “Harley” for his bike. I said no flippin’ way. I wanted “Harlow” after one of my favorite black and white movie actresses, Jean Harlow.

We had compromised both loving the name “Harper.” “Harper Trace Matthews,” I said, "you are officially our daughter and we love you so much.” Taz leaned over her, and brushed a kiss against her little bald head as she nursed. “I think she’s going to be blond,” he said. “Yep,” I nodded. “She’s going to be blond-haired with green eyes like yours, Taz.” “Or yours,” he replied. “I love your eyes, Lindsey.” “No matter what shade of green her eyes end up, she is going to be

exquisite,” I remarked, gazing at my beautiful daughter. Today was the beginning of little Harper’s life; for Taz and me, it was the beginning of our life together as a family. We were joined in love, and now, we were love plus one.

About the Author

Andrea Smith is an Ohio native and currently resides in southern Ohio. Ms. Smith is the mother of two grown sons and grandmother of four. The ‘Baby

Series’ trilogy was Ms. Smith’s first self-published work. Having previously been employed a number of years as an executive for a large, global corporation, Ms. Smith decided to leave the corporate world and pursue her lifelong dream of writing fiction. She credits her former employer in a large part for assisting her in making this career choice. Ms. Smith discovered that reality is often times stranger than fiction (in Corporate America.) Her latest book, 'Diamond Girl' is loosely based on actual events that occurred in the summer of 2012 in Fort Wayne and Indianapolis, Indiana involving a wide-reaching federal bust for various criminal activities involving

the Outlaw Motorcycle Club. The characters, along with other fictional clubs, events, companies, and business establishments depicted in this book are purely fictional. The next book in the G-Men Series is Love Plus One – to be released June 12, 2013 If you liked this book, check out some other great books by Andrea Smith: Baby Series: Maybe Baby Baby Love Be My Baby Baby Come Back

Come find Andrea: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndreaSmithA Twitter: @MaybeBabyAuthor Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6

Table of Contents Acknowledgement Table of Contents CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 9

5 6 10 40 67 79 100 120 136 157 169

CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 12 CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 14 CHAPTER 15 CHAPTER 16 CHAPTER 17 CHAPTER 18 CHAPTER 19 CHAPTER 20 CHAPTER 21 CHAPTER 22

179 193 211 230 239 257 285 305 322 335 360 389 417

CHAPTER 23 CHAPTER 24 CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 26 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 28 CHAPTER 29 CHAPTER 30 CHAPTER 31 CHAPTER 32 CHAPTER 33 CHAPTER 34 CHAPTER 35

433 445 468 487 505 530 551 571 595 612 629 637 655

CHAPTER 36 CHAPTER 37 CHAPTER 38 CHAPTER 39 CHAPTER 40 CHAPTER 41 CHAPTER 42 CHAPTER 43 CHAPTER 44 CHAPTER 45 CHAPTER 46 CHAPTER 47 CHAPTER 48

672 691 715 732 750 766 785 802 817 834 851 864 881

CHAPTER CHAPTER 49 50

892 899

CHAPTER 51 CHAPTER 51 EPILOGUE

915 935 953