Chapter One

Stephanie Gregarious walked rapidly and silently towards her apartment door. She let herself in, quickly shut off the security system and glanced at her image in the mirror close to the security panel.

Long raven hair, angular face with a lopsided mouth that at times could smile but not often. Her eyes, a piercing ice blue, had the effect of silencing anyone who tried to get too close. She towered over most of the women she knew or met and male colleagues seemed to be intimidated by her statuesque figure. Those she worked with either ignored her or made the sly comment of the ‘Ice bitch cold front moving in.’ Perhaps she was, it made no real impression on her, for she worked to live, nothing more!

Now, here she was in this small town called Ampolisa and the new owner of the local art gallery.  Some of the locals were none too happy with this stranger acquiring the business. What the hell did she care? As far as she was concerned she was here and that was all there was too it the locals be damned.

Her mind flashed to a larger city and her work as an expert in not only her field of art but also as a highly experienced security analyst. The city had one of the most corrupt art officials shed come across in her ten years as an analyst. Eventually, with the use of questionable tactics, shed brought down the curator and his staff. In the end she was forced to viciously take a life to prevent her own from expiring. That had cost her the job! The police, although tolerant, wanted her out of town. Her employer, a government department, knew they had created a monster and suggested she consider taking a long-term leave until they could decide what to do permanently. Therefore, she bought a gallery in a small town a thousand miles from her home and here she was! Somehow bitterness always crept over her with the thought that the government had written her off. The resulting restlessness managed to make her need a venue to vent the frustration she felt inside.

Maybe I could stay here for a while.  I'll see how it goes.

She impatiently selected a TV dinner as well as a drink and tried unsuccessfully to relax. Perhaps a workout at the local gym isn't such a bad idea… tonight might just be the night to seek out the locals.

* * *

Louise had forgotten how many times in the evening she had asked her students to shut up when she tried to give the lesson. Sometimes she wondered why she even bothered. This was the class no other teacher wanted and now she knew why. Since she was one of the newest members on the faculty she agreed to try her hand at taming the 'wild bunch'.

The characters, she must admit, did leave room for improvement. They were the delinquents in their solaced final year. Am I stupid to hope I can make a difference?

She headed towards her car parked close to the building; a precaution she agreed to after receiving warnings from some of her friends. They knew the evening wasn't safe, even on the campus.

As she looked at the passing of the youngsters she wished just once they would listen. She had been teaching for four semesters and had a growing reputation in her chosen field of languages. With this particular class she just tried to teach English to those that would listen. Often despairing as she was constantly subjected to a barrage of abusive language. Never once did she give way to the intimidation of the likes of Jon Arenas and his friends. His lewd remarks had her blushing at times and her fair complexion did little to help cover that up. Her attempts to hide her discomfort by swinging her long blonde hair over her face had little effect as Jon always seemed to know heed fired a shot across the bow and it made its mark.

Maybe I will go to the gym. A good workout is always good for frustrations.

She stepped into the car and headed across town ignorant of a car with four young men watching her, following behind at a distance which wouldn't give them away.

* * *

The gym was new with all the modern equipment any fitness freak might want to try out. Steph appreciated a good gym, a place where she could and probably would spend the hours of her free time.

"May I help you?" the receptionist asked politely, noting the coolness of the women in front of her, bending down to continue her previous task.

"Yes. I want to join the gym, what do I need to do?" Steph asked directly, her piercing stare causing the receptionist to look up from her task as she felt the gaze bore into the back of her neck.

"Well… you need to be sponsored by a patron, do you know anyone?" the young woman said in a quiet voice, not sure what this women would say next as she had a very aggressive ambience about her.

"No. I guess I never thought gyms had that kind of requirement these days. Is it possible to pay extra to join?"

Damn!  Now I need to find someone in this town to help me out, not something I want to do or need in my life. Christ, why couldn't it just be $1000 and a lifetime membership thing as in all the other places I've joined in the past!

The girl looked over the woman's shoulder and saw Louise Masterson entering the building, acknowledging her with a bright, friendly smile.

"You didn't answer my question, can I get in any other way?" Steph was getting totally pissed off, now she had to go home and work out her frustration on something else.

The woman looked at her icy stare and shook her head in a negative way and turned her attention to Louise.

"Ms. Masterson its good to see you again,” the girl said her voice changing drastically to a friendly tone.

As she nodded in the receptionists direction the blonde woman was smiling, her face lighting up with the expression.

"Just coming to ease a little tension from teaching the monsters Clare, you know how it is." She laughed turning her attention to the quiet, yet somewhat menacing stance of the other woman.

She tentatively smiled at the women who raised her eyebrow, looked back at the receptionist and then at the door, clearly making a decision.

Steph walked towards the vending machine, and selected iced water.

"Have a problem Clare?" Louise said quietly to the other woman her eyes concentrating on the back of the tall, dark woman.

"Yes in a way, she wants to go in the gym but you know the rules, no sponsor no entry. Cant for the life of me see the point when we need the customers, but you know Sally's rules." The receptionist looked at the woman again who had a hooded expression to those ice cool eyes.

"Sally does have some strange notions at times, is she in tonight?" Louise looked at the woman again, noting her stoic expression and tightly coiled body, almost like a spring ready to be let loose.

"No, she's gone to the cinema with Emma and they wont be back before we close, you know those two and their drinking sessions afterwards." Clare laughed at the thought of her boss coming back; rolling in would be the more apt description. A good woman but she could put away the booze.

"In that case, how about I do a little sponsoring for a good cause." She said chuckling to herself. What the hell, I'm in the mood to be generous and that woman looks like she needs the work out.

"Louise, if Sally finds out she will kill you, there again whose gonna tell." Clare found the sponsorship forms, had Louise sign them before she went on her way to the changing rooms.

"Ms.…? I'm sorry but I didn't get your name?" Clare said in a loud enough voice to bring the silent woman back over to the desk.

"Gregarious, why?"

"Guess its your lucky night, Ms. Masterson decided to help you out and signed your papers. Shall we complete the formalities, assuming you're still interested?" Clare stopped herself from smiling as she saw the shock on the rather stern face of the woman in front of her.

"Sure… I guess so…yeah lets get on with it." Steph answered in a rather uncharacteristic way for her.  She was stuttering!

With the completion of the forms, the required tour of the facilities and the payment of the fees Steph headed for the changing room. She stopped midway and turned to the receptionist.

 "Can you tell me who helped me out?" Steph asked with a crooked sort of smile that turned what was a dour expression into a very beautiful face.

"Well, I guess its okay… Louise Masterson. She's one of the local teachers, also the daughter of one of the wealthiest men in town. A nice woman though, no pretensions of grandeur, just likes to be one of the girls. I went to school with her sister, she's a Daddy's girl, you couldn't get two more different women." Clare suddenly realized that she had given away more than she should, looking sheepishly at the woman.

"She would kill me if she found out I was gossiping about her life, better not let her know, okay?" the women said with a grin.

"I wont and thanks for the information. By the way, just for the record, I'm the new owner of the art gallery ." Steph almost laughed herself as the young woman blushed at being found out to be a source of gossip.

Steph walked casually to the changing rooms.

Louise knew Sally was going to find out eventually what shed done. Clare couldn't keep a secret to save her life. Although, it made her smile to think that occasionally she could do something for someone without it having her Fathers money attached to it.

She thought about the woman outside and wondered what she was thinking herself. She appears self sufficient and yet…alone? Yes, a lonely woman but one that wouldn't admit it readily I would guess. With a body like hers she must do some powerful workouts… wouldn't mind exercising with her now and again.

Walking over to the bench she picked up her favourite exercise prop, a long staff.  She learned to use the staff in college and asked Sally if it was okay to continue to practice with it here. Needing the business the owner agreed. In her first few semesters Louise used the gym two or three times a week. Now, because of work and the adoption a mongrel dog, ‘Argo’, she could only manage once a week.

She named the dog Argo, after a character in a book shed read just before he came into her life. Of course her father had been upset she chose a stray rather than a pedigree animal. Had he known of her interest in animals he would have given to her the very best money could buy.

As in all things Daddy, your money cant buy what's important and love in whatever form can never be bought. How she wished her Mother hadn't died, when she and her sister were too young to know her. Since then her Father, Henry Masterson, had given his daughters everything material but failed in one department…Love.

Argo had been given love. He returned the love and made Louise feel certain she would feel cherished and loved by someone for herself one day. Now, at twenty-six she was wondering if her knight in shining armour was just another fantasy and maybe it was time to live in the real world. My Fathers real world isn't what I want. If only I could find my place in life…then again fantasy can be hell too.

Grasping the staff firmly with both hands Louise started her workout with gusto.

* * *

Stephanie Gregarious leaned against the door and watched the petite women go through her paces with the staff… she was good without a doubt. Being proficient with the staff herself made Steph think that a sparring match might be just what she needed.

Wonder if she would mind?

Steph walked over to the area and picked up a spare staff twirling it in her hands. I haven't used one of these in years. Perhaps the last time was at one of the last summer camps and that had been what, ten years ago? Here she was thirty-two and thinking back to a time that she had been happy for a while, yes, it was only a while not for long, all of two months. Chris had made her happy for a short time; they had taken the young college students out to summer camp for recreation and education about painting techniques.

For Steph it had been work, relaxation and romance in that year although it ended with Chris’ betraying her with one of the other students. Somehow she had managed to get over it and pick up her life again, now it was work, work and more work! No one was going to get that close to her again if she could help it, and she certainly had made it so far.

Suddenly Louise looked over her shoulder and saw the dark woman who looked very intimidating in her black shorts and shirt, the muscular body taunt and waiting for…what? Louise’ breath caught as she looked at the vision in front of her. She is the most beautiful woman I have ever set my eyes on.

"Do you want to spar for a while?” Came the clipped voice of the women who had taken her breath away.

"I...I guess, sure I would like that." Louise rarely short of something to say was having difficulty now.

"Good! You seem quite expert with the staff, who taught you?" Steph said in a gentler tone.

Louise laughed softly and replied. "A friend in college wanted to show off his expertise with the staff and needed to practise everyday. Guess I volunteered for a while until I got better than he did. Somehow he lost interest in the staff after that. I guess I didn't, it feels so much a part of me, cant really explain it." She shrugged her shoulders displacing the shirt she wore, which was a cut away and showed her muscled abdomen, her skirt was short and matched the shirt.

"Guess you don't get many sparring partners here? Seems a little quiet." Steph continued her voice returning to the clipped tone.

"Sometimes Sally, the owner, will go a round or two but yeah its usually a lone battle. Quiet is not the word, but there again it is a Friday evening and most people have other things to do."

"You obviously don't." Steph did not know why she made the statement it was obvious after all. Something inside prompted her, she wanted to know so badly it was causing a pain in her rib cage and for the life of her she could not understand that.

Louise looked at the women in front of her, smiled and said, " No, obviously I haven't any where else to go tonight." She somehow knew it was important to this woman and to her.

"Lets spar then…Ms.?" Steph asked, already knowing the answer.

"Masterson, Louise and yours?" Louise held her breath waiting in anticipation.

"Gregarious, Stephanie." She stated, taking up her stance for the exercise.

Louise let out her breath, as she thought that the name suited her opponent in some ways but not so in others. You couldn't exactly call the dark woman a gossip.

The workout had taken both of them by surprise!

Steph thought she would quickly tire the younger woman and get the better of her. That hadn't happened, so they sparred until both of them almost dropped in exhaustion.

Louise needed to get the frustration of the evening out of her system, but looking at the other woman she knew that physically Stephanie should have beaten her fairly easily. That proved harder than even she expected and they both rallied to the task and somehow it had been an evenly matched contest.

Louise wrapped a towel around her shoulders to soak up some of the excess perspiration as she watched her opponent who had walked to the other side of the room and looked out the window.

"Thanks for the session, its been a long time since I had the opportunity to have a real good workout and believe me I think I will be paying for this into next week, my body wont know what hit it." Louise laughed softly.

She saw the movement of the head in acknowledgement but Steph didn't turn towards her or say anything. Louise wondered if she had offended the other women by not giving in earlier. She shrugged and began to walk towards the showers.

"Well, thanks again and goodnight…perhaps we will meet up again another evening?" Louise said tentatively.

Again, the silent women never turned, as if she hadn't heard the voice of the person in the room with her.

As Louise got to the outer door, Steph turned quickly and said in a soft voice.

"Louise Masterson, thank you! I hope we do meet up again soon."

Although her tone indicated that she wasn’t expecting an answer, her expression defied it. Louise had the impression that Steph had not really wanted to say anything but somehow she couldn't stop herself.

"Great, I'll look forward to it, maybe next Friday?" With that as a final comment she walked into the shower area, a large grin on her face. She knew this had been an important turning point in her life and this woman was surely a part of it.

Steph looked at the retreating back of the blonde and shook her head a little. Somehow she will turn up in my life again.It feels good to think that, what the hell if it isn't what I expected. Some things in life have the tendency to just catch you out and Louise Masterson appears to be one of those things!

She went over to a rowing machine and continued her workout for a while longer.

* * *

Chapter Two

Louise toyed with the idea of taking Argo for a walk for the past hour, hoping against hope that the weather would calm down. However, it had taken a turn for the worst and the call of nature wasn't something the dog could do anything about. The fact he waited for his walks at least a couple of hours longer than normal on a Saturday was trying even his placid patience as he prowled around the house.

"Guess we are gonna get wet Argo, but it never really bothers you does it?" she softly spoke to the dog, scratching his ears, reaching for his lead.

Louise had taken longer getting out of bed today as her body protested vigorously, as she knew it would, after her rather strenuous workout of the previous evening. I wonder if Stephanie Gregarious is feeling the effects of the workout. There again with a body like hers, and in the physical condition it presented I doubt it. The thought of the dark woman's body did bring a warm flush to her face.

Christ where did these thoughts come from? She hadn't led a sheltered life but neither had she thought of a woman in quite this way before. Must be really getting frustrated… maybe it is time to take that offered date with Dave. Dave Macklin, a friend from her schooldays, hadn't given up hope that she might eventually consider him as a worthy candidate for a husband. Her Father would be happy since Dave, who worked for him on the ranch as manager, was highly regarded.

Yet, it just didn't appeal in any big way to her, never had, although she did like Dave as a friend but never as a potential lover and life-long mate. She walked outside into the torrential rain, the wind pulling her and Argo along.

Within half an hour she was drenched to the skin. Argo appeared to be loving every minute of the down pouring rain, with the gusts of wind that sent leaves and debris swirling around, causing the playful dog to try catching something every now and again.

She laughed loudly at his antics, deciding, what the hell she was already wet, so playing around in the lousy weather with her dog was better than sitting at home with a good book and a decent coffee, or was it?

The next thing she knew Argo had the scent of something in the wind, and was dragging her along at great pace. Anyone watching this scene would see a petite blonde woman, getting soaked through with the dashing rain, being pulled along by a black mongrel, both with happy expressions on their faces.

That was how a certain art dealer saw her new ‘friend’ of the previous evening. In years to come, if anyone asked how she would remember Louise Masterson, this would be the picture. A woman who obviously enjoyed life, no matter the circumstances or the weather it would appear.

A smile appeared briefly as she watched the antics of dog and his mistress, wondering if she intended to stop at any time, she was getting pretty close to collision.

Then, the dog saw her and tried to pull up. Managing only to slip on some wet leaves, wrapping itself around Steph’s legs, which also brought the younger women cannoning into her. Fortunately she had seen it coming and managed to stiffen her body for the impact. Not so with Louise, who was momentarily shocked and winded by the incident, then finding her feet slowly, looked up into magnificent blue eyes.

Louise blinked several times, unable to regain her composure. Was she really held tightly by the woman she'd been thinking about only an hour ago? She began to feel the warmth on her face as she realized the embarrassment of the moment and what a sight she must look.

Hell, what must she think of me? Louise didn't know where to hide her face.

"I see you have another workout partner?" Steph gently said in her ear, she was still held up firmly in her strong arms.

The confusion evident in her face Louise looked directly into the blue eyes.

"I'm really sorry about this…normally we take a more sedate walk...a stroll in the park that kind of thing. Guess we both got carried away, you know how it is with this wonderful weather we have here." Louise used her hand to acknowledge the weather and tried to make the event less tense than she actually felt.

Steph warmly looked at the woman still held in her arms.  Neither seemed to be making an effort in extricating themselves from the enforced embrace.

"Yeah, I guess it is interesting weather today. Brings a certain…something to the day wouldn't you say?" Steph had a smile playing around her mouth and even wanted to laugh out loud, however she held back, she wasn't sure why.

Louise realized that she was still being held securely in those powerful arms and could almost drown in the blue eyes she gazed into. Slowly moving out of the embrace, which loosened immediately, she tentatively smiled up at the Stephanie.

"Guess Argo was a little playful today."

"Oh, so that's his name, interesting selection for a dog." Steph stroked the wet ears of the dog, speaking gently to him.

Suddenly Louise realized that not only was she getting drenched but that Stephanie was also getting very wet, now that they had almost bowled her over.

"Could I manage to twist your arm into having coffee with me? I feel responsible for you getting really wet now, and I would like to apologize." Louise just wanted to keep staring into those eyes that bewitched her, anything she could do or say to keep this woman with her longer, she would give it a try.

Steph looked into the green eyes of the woman and smiled her crooked smile and said "Sure, your place or mine?"

Louise couldn't believe how easily she had managed her goal it just didn't sit right with her image of this woman, but what the hell!

"I live about two blocks down, you?"

"Your place then, mines at least six blocks away." She didn't answer the silent question of why was she so far away from home on foot in this appalling weather.

They set off towards her house with Argo merrily between the two of them, giving the impression it had always been this way.

The house was a period style single deck from the thirties; it had been her grandparent's home until their deaths within a month of each other three years ago. Louise, always travelling to see them at least once a week before she went to college, had been their favourite granddaughter and was left the house in their will. Her Mother had been an only child and her death had devastated her parents. Henry Masterson hadn't wanted his children to keep the contact and tried to cut all ties with the older couple. Even at the tender age of six, Louise wouldn't be deterred so she kept up the contact. Now, later in life, her grandparents left her this lovely house where she could be free of her father's influence.

She had always been a private person and more so with her home. Now, she wanted nothing more than to share her private domain with Stephanie even if it was only a fleeting visit.

She let them inside the hall, which was brightly decorated in pale greens and blues. There was a sign with the words ‘No entrance unless your heart is pure’ above the door to what appeared to be the main living area.

Louise smiled briefly at Steph as she read the sign and lifted an expressive eyebrow.

"Just a whim."

Steph shook herself out of her raincoat and passed it to the waiting woman, who motioned her to go through the door.

Looking directly at Louise "Can't quite give you that guarantee Louise, but it sure is purer than it was."

Louise chuckled and walked towards another door to the left of the room.

"Coffee, I think I agreed on, how do you take it?"

A little pre-occupied Steph called back over her shoulder as she walked through the door. "Black and strong."

Louise went into the kitchen to get the drinks, making sure Argo was relieved of his lead, settling him down in his basket with a treat, after being towelled dry.

Steph was pleased that the younger woman had asked her for coffee. Not really knowing the reason for her restlessness that morning she had been walking in the rain for about an hour. She thought about Louise Masterson on numerous occasions the night before and even woke up wondering what the young woman did on her Saturdays. She put it down to curiosity and felt restless to do something, except the weather wasn't that accommodating. In spite of the weather she decided to walk into the next neighbourhood and who should barrel into her but the woman of her dreams.

Hell, did I just say that, the woman of my dreams? Guess figuratively speaking it is correct, I have been thinking about her. Never has another person made me lose concentration like this woman. Maybe Chris in the early days but even then I cannot remember it being this intense. True, Chris was a very capable person, domineering at times and full of herself. She taught me some very valuable lessons that proved to be my life saver later on. But, I've never given anyone else the chance to get that close to me or hurt me like that since. Now I here I am with this gut feeling that Louise Masterson is going to ride straight into my heart and demolish any resistance. I know it is futile to try and fight this…but I have to try...don't I?

The room was airy, looked well lived in and comfortable.

Small water colours of the district and town scenes adorned the walls. Over the fireplace a portrait of a family, displaying a tall handsome man, a lovely gentle looking woman with two small children one dark and one very fair, they looked incredibly happy.

It was a home and one very well loved...she suspected it had always been that way. She thought this house must mean so much to the woman in the other room and held happy memories for her.

The door from the far end of the room swung open and the petite blonde walked in carrying a tray with steaming coffee and a few other goodies.

"Ah, I see you're admiring the family portrait. You will notice I haven't changed much over the years have I? Still have those big ears." She grinned at the expression on the older woman's face, was she surprised that it was her family?

"II guess it does resemble you a little. Although I don't know, the blonde locks haven't changed much and your body hasn't exactly taken on weed proportions has it?" Steph said nonchalantly.

"Oh GREAT! So you think I'm small do you, well let me tell you Ms. super physical form! I happen to know I have a reasonable body, thank you!" Louise spluttered out, not knowing why she got flustered at this seemingly innocent remark.

"Hey, hold on there! I was only joking. Guess I didn't realize you were that sensitive about your body." Steph looked at the younger woman, her eyes travelled over said body in hooded appreciation, not wanting to trigger any more tirades from the woman in front of her.

Louise felt the regard of the wonderful blue eyes on her body and wanted to look straight into them but did not have the courage. She was sure her face was crimson enough with embarrassment.

"Sorry, shall we have that coffee I promised?" was the tentative response.

"Sure."

They both sat down in opposite chairs and picked up the coffee and drank it each lost in their own thoughts for a few moments.

Louise then started up the conversation, as it was her home, chattering on giving Steph an insight into the town characters that she hadn't met and even those she had. She told Steph some of the town's history, including her own brief history, leaving out the fact that her Father was the local town patron or that she was the prodigal daughter. The two women settled into a quiet appreciation of each other, even Steph thawed a little giving Louise some insight into her background but nothing much and nothing controversial.

Suddenly Steph leaned back in her chair, asking who had painted the water colours.

Louise looked a little taken aback at the question but told her anyway.

"The district scenes and the main portrait were painted by my Mother, she finished the portrait of the family a month before she died in a car accident…" Louise felt her throat tighten at the memory it still evoked, even after all these years.

"The others, the town scenes and the comic portraits of the dogs?" Steph wanted to know but didn't like to push it as she realized that it was breaking open old memories and some of them still very painful.

Louise looked as if she wasn't going to answer, and then as if she made a decision silently, she shrugged her shoulders and answered.

"They're mine! I guess I got the talent from my Mom although she was far better, I still have all the rough edges." Louise self-consciously laughed and looked over at the smiling picture of the woman over the fireplace.

Without warning or even hearing her move, Steph was up in front of her, gazing at her with piercingly blue eyes, which now held a gentle expression in them.

"Louise they are wonderful, you have talent, wouldn't mind commissioning you to do one for me sometime?" Steph confidently stated.

Louise looked straight into eyes that had captured a part of her heart the first time shed looked into them.

"Anytime."

They both looked at each other for what seemed hours and then Argo bounding between them broke the spell, a rubber ball clamped in his mouth as he dropped it significantly next to Steph’s feet.

"I guess your friend here wants to play?" Steph picked up the ball, as she walked towards the patio door leading to, she hoped, the yard area. Fortunately the rain had stopped as she opened the door and threw the ball for him.

Louise looked at the woman playing ball with the only other creature she truly loved... I never realized love could hit you so quickly and effectively, it is a wonderful sensation that will take some explaining, if anyone can!

"Yeah I guess he does." Was all Louise finally managed, as she realized that she had fallen head over heels in love in less than twenty-four hours and to make matters even more complicated, it was with a woman.

They say love has no boundaries and in this case that was the honest truth.

Louise watched her new friend play with Argo a while longer, wanting so much for this moment to last. Nothing in her life ever felt this right, yet she knew Steph hadn't given her any indication that it had been a mutual need. In fact she had been polite and given little away really about herself, maybe if she asked her to lunch?

"Stephanie?"

"Yeah"

"Would you care to stay for lunch?"

Steph glanced over to the blonde haired woman giving a sigh. A part of her wanted to say yes and yet…the other part definitely said NO in a big way.

"Sorry Louise, I have to work later so it would be difficult, might I take a rain check? I'm already running a little late." She smiled at the woman in front of her to take the sting out of her refusal.

"Sorry, I should have thought you would have other things to do today." Louise replied wistfully.

Steph walked closer to Louise, wanting so much to take her into her arms and remove the sign of sadness she saw in the green eyes, knowing that was impossible. What the hell would she think?

"Hey its work, you know how that can be? Maybe you can come around to the gallery tomorrow or… some other time and I can repay the coffee gesture?"

Louise stared into those blue eyes, which often reflected with ice, now displaying a warm glow, regaining her balance with the world, she nodded her head.

Steph walked towards the door and looked back at her friend "Until tomorrow then?"

"Until then."

The door shut behind her and Louise lost herself in her own thoughts.

* * *

Louise woke the next day with a tremendous headache and fierce shivers and unable able to get to the gallery. Consequently all of the next week was a kaleidoscope of things not achieved, as she had to call in sick. The flu was her doctors opinion and who was she to disagree…all she knew was she had difficulty getting out of bed and she felt like a truck had run over her.

Although she knew deep down she missed Stephanie, her body had simply refused to take up the challenge. Now she would have to wait until the following week to see the woman who captured her heart. Perhaps it wasn't the flu but heart sickness.

* * *

Stephanie watched people wander around the gallery but the one person she really wanted to see didn't turn up. So much for that… guess it was what I wanted anyway… deep down. That still didn't dull the ache she felt at not seeing Louise.

The whole of the week was helped along by the thought that on Friday there was a good chance she would see Louise at the gym. Yet again there was no sign of the woman.

Steph was perplexed to say the least, what if something was wrong with Louise, how would she find out without it being seen as over friendly?

Maybe tomorrow I can walk to Louise’s neighbourhood and just check it out for myself, after all I am free all day. Yes, that sounds good I am concerned about my friend that is all. Oh yeah, right!

She looked at the weather and decided it would be a perfect day to take the black jaguar sports coupe. It was about the only over indulgent item she had ever owned in her life. The sleek monster of a machine attracted her so she decided to buy it and to hell with the fact that it was rather conspicuous in this type of poky town.

Steph, dressed in a brown leather jacket over a pristine white cotton shirt and in extremely tight looking jeans, slid behind the wheel and started the car. As she left the parking lot she turned towards the east side of town where Louise lived.

It didn't take long to arrive at her destination, pulling up outside the house. Here she had that feeling of coming home, shaking the thought from her head as stupid, Steph slid out of the car and walked up the drive.

The doorbell chimed at least three times, Steph wasn't sure if it had been a good idea to come to the young woman's home again. Although she had heard a dog in the background she wasn't sure if Louise was inside or not. Turning away from the door hoping to make a discreet retreat before she looked like she was loitering with intent. That brought a smile to her face for if she was loitering, she hoped to see Louise even if for only a few minutes.

Then she heard the door being unlocked swivelling around was shaken by the sight of the person opening the door for her. Steph walked back towards the half opened door, gazing at the haggard face of the woman in front of her. "Christ! Louise what's wrong?"

Louise gave a pained smile but said nothing.

"Are you going to let me in for a few minutes?"

She walked through the door anyway. Noting that Louise wore only an old bathrobe and looked entirely too shaky on her feet. Argo was, by this time, completely ecstatic over the new arrival, a walking partner at last!

"Hey, Louise come on, you will fall if you don't sit down soon." Steph took her elbow and gently walked her into the living area and a waiting sofa.

"Thanks." Louise said in a thin, weak voice, exhausted at the effort required to get out of bed. Having cursed whoever was at the door originally, now she was really pleased shed made the effort to do so.

Steph looked at the younger woman, realizing this was one sick woman. "Can I get you anything? Have you seen a Doctor?"

Louise looked up at her and the eyes that sparkled at her the last time they met could only just keep open.

"No, I'm fine. The Doctor came and sent me to bed, said it was the flu."

Steph realized this must be a very virulent form of the flu and she should be back in bed and resting. "Guess I came at the wrong time, but…well…I was just in the area and thought I would see if…if you wanted me to take Argo for a walk?" She finally thought of a reason to be there as she complimented the words with a bright smile.

Fortunately Louise was in no condition to do anything but nod her head.

"How about I let you have a key, take Argo for the walk and I go to bed for another hour, when you get back I’ll feel better." She wasn't sure who she was trying to convince but it certainly wasn't Stephanie.

Steph looked at her pale face and the tiredness around the eyes, feeling the other woman's sheer will power trying to keep herself awake, "Yeah, sounds good to me." Looking at Argo she grinned and knew when she came back a certain young woman would be fast asleep.

As it turned out Steph enjoyed the walk with Argo, taking him to a park nearby. With his head hanging out the window of the Jag Argo looked real cool. Well, as cool as any dog could look that was for sure without Raybans to set off the picture.

She'd even laughed at the thought of having a dog in her prize possession. Never thought that would happen! Life has a habit of serving up some real interesting scenarios.

Wonder, which doctor Louise, saw? She certainly didn't appear to be making progress if shed been in bed all week. Well, if a certain Ms. Masterson didn't object, then she now has a party interested in seeing that she returned to health quickly. Okay, so the dog needs walking too!

Two hours later they arrived back at the house.

Stephanie had never been this interested in another person in her life, always essentially a loner now she was trying to come to terms with the fact that this woman had captured…what?

Another question without an answer and yet…I do know the answer.

Argo had been fed, watered and was now sleeping soundly on a large beanbag and Steph was watching the TV. A sound, coming from the room across the house, made Steph jump a little. Hope I haven't disturbed Louise, she certainly needs the rest.

The sound was muffled and Steph wasn't sure if it was a cry or not. It gave her the ideal opportunity to see if Louise needed anything, right?

She opened the door of the bedroom and saw Louise thrashing around the bed; a glass of water had been knocked off the bedside table.

"Hey, Louise take it easy." She comforted the younger woman as she moved closer to the bed, then managed to stop her thrashing around by holding onto her gently.

"I have you Louise, its okay." She gently soothed into her ear.

The woman gradually stopped moving around and seemed to settle down with the arms around her.

A whisper suddenly came from Louise "Don't ever leave me!" a plaintiff plea from a sick person who didn't know what she was saying.

Steph looked at the haggard woman and suddenly realized she never would, God willing.

"You're right there kid, I'm never going to leave you!" she echoed softly into the hair of the woman she held gently.

Somehow this all turned into her biggest nightmare, if you could call the pleasurable feelings she was experiencing a nightmare. She never wanted to let anyone into her life, yet she was now on the verge of committing her heart to someone she didn't really know that well. However, it seemed so right! This woman holds me captive without even knowing it and she could so easily break my heart and I would let her!

Yes she would, all the barriers and the defences she had built in the last ten years had dissolved with a glance. God, what have I let myself in for?

A smile crossed her face as she looked at Louise and she lowered her back to the bed and went to fetch more water and pills.

Gently allowing her to drink with more pills to help with the fever. If the fever doesn't ease up soon I will bring that Doctor right back here.I don't give a damn if anyone thinks I don't really have the right to interfere.

Louise woke drenched in sweat. This flu bug is certainly taking its time to exit my body, in fact I don't think it is getting any better. Was I dreaming or was Stephanie Gregarious in my house again and holding me in her arms? It must have been a dream, a very vivid one but a dream nonetheless.God, now I am hallucinating about the woman, hell what I wouldn't give to have that fantasy come true even for a few minutes.

Then the door to her room opened and in stepped that very person who shed been thinking about.

"Are you a ghost?"

Steph looked at the woman thinking she must really be out of it.

"Not when I checked the last time I looked in a mirror, why?" she replied with a faint smile.

Louise looked into those ice blue eyes drowning again in them. Why did it give her a headache just at this moment?

"I thought that I’d dreamed you were here, I thought it was…" she trailed off miserably as the headache caught hold again.

"Yeah I know, you were out of it for a time I think. When did you last see the Doctor?" she asked in a firm voice seeing the miserable pain filled look cross the pale features.

"I'm not sure, Monday I guess. I wasn't feeling well I called him over. What day is it?" she asked tentatively.

"Monday! Do you feel any better since then? No don't bother answering that I think I can make up my own mind." Steph was annoyed.

As an afterthought Steph added, " It's Saturday."

"Yeah I feel a little better. Saturday!" Louise said defensively.

"Oh come on now, its plain to me that you're in one hell of a state Louise. Why didn't you call your family over to help?"

Louise looked at her and saw the angry sparkle in her eyes.

"I didn't want to make a fuss I guess. Anyway, I feel better now." She stated with emphasis, her head beating like a drum.

Steph suddenly lost the angry look, gently touching the side of her friend's cheek.

"You're still way too warm Louise, do you really feel better or should I call the Doctor?"

Louise was getting hotter by the minute the more Steph touched her.

"No its fine, I'm fine. It will be okay. Steph how about some tea and a little conversation? Take both our minds off this, what do you say?" Louise tried to calm her fast beating heart at her new friend's attention.

"Sure why not? If you get any worse or are tired I want to know, all right?" Steph demanded.

"Yes, anything you say." Louise for the first time in over a week smiled.

Argo bounded in at that moment and they both smiled at each other, green eyes meeting blue.

The conversation took on a general feel, mainly about Steph’s week at work and what new exhibitions at the gallery were planned. She was particularly verbal about a certain sculptor Paul Ironside. Louise wasn't sure if it was just professional pride or she actually had a thing for the man.

That last thought brought on Louise’s headache even more, she hadn't wanted Steph to find out and leave earlier therefore hid the pain and tiredness from her.

Suddenly the mention of this Paul Ironside seemed to aggravate it more. The paleness of the woman in front of her worried Steph as she looked across when she heard the sigh.

"Guess I have outstayed my welcome, come on now Louise time to rest some more, what do you say?" Steph coaxed gently.

Louise looked into the eyes of the one person she never wanted to leave her life. Thinking it could not be that easy could it? To find the one person who made your soul complete, then to have it shatter in moments with just a sentence and a name. The tears unfortunately couldn't be stemmed no matter what she did, suddenly finding herself held close to Stephanie's chest. Is this heaven or hell? Hard to tell in my present state but I know one thing... it can go on forever and I wouldn't mind in the least.

"Hey its okay Louise, I'm here." Steph tenderly entreated her friend.

"Thank you." Louise said simply.

Steph smiled that lopsided smile of hers, gradually laying her back on the pillows.

"Come on now sleep. Maybe you will feel better after another nap, what do you say?"

"Will you be here when I wake up?" Louise said, in what could only be described as a pathetic plea.

Steph looked down at her and simply replied "Sure."

Watching closely as a small smile slipped onto the face almost hidden in the bedcovers the eyes closing into sleep.

"Christ! What have I got myself into this time?" Steph said in a voice that was so low, it was impossible for anyone to hear but herself.

Steph decided that taking Argo for another walk and going to her apartment for some clothes seemed a good idea. Louise was sleeping and probably would be like that for another hour or more.

The journey back to her apartment was a thoughtful one and the dog was certainly excited at being taken out twice that day. What had she done over the last week to keep him happy? Obviously got up when she shouldn't and why the hell didn't any of her family call?

She let herself in, collected something to sleep in and more clothes for the next day. Fortunately she had Sunday free, unusual but it had turned out to be a blessing in disguise under the circumstances.

Funny how the mention of Paul Ironside caused a shift in Louise’s equilibrium, strange really, Paul had to be one her few close friends. They met years ago when she first started with the gallery he worked in. It had been a mutual dislike at first sight, which eventually turned into mutual admiration of each other's talents and then just a comfortable friendship.

Paul's wife, Fay, often ribbed them both about their friendship, although she knew the respect and love they had for each other was solid, dependable and strictly platonic. She had no problem with the relationship.

Their daughter Grace was her goddaughter and at four years old she certainly took a little containing. That had been the reason for Paul's absence in the art world in the past few years, now he was working again and she got to hold his first exhibition. A coup for the gallery, especially such a small provincial one, hopefully it would help her get settled in this community for however long she decided to stay.

Her sudden attacks of wanting to move from place to place had been a constant source of delight for the government board she worked for, especially when she turned things around in so many places. Now they would be just pleased to see her closed up in some backwater place and stay there for good.

Maybe now she had a reason for staying in this place for a little while longer than anticipated.
"Come on Argo lets go, you need a walk and I need to go see how your ‘Mom’s’ doing." Steph let that thought bring a smile to her face.

* * *

Louise woke up, noticing that it was dark outside, but strangely quiet in her home.

‘Wonder what Argo’s up too? Wonder what has happened to Stephanie?’

Guess I better get up and feed my beast and see what he was up to. Although I  certainly could do with a shower. Wonder if I can manage to keep up my energy levels long enough to do that?

Walking into the kitchen she noticed it was clean. Everything had been put into its place. "Stephanie?" she softly spoke the name that haunted her, she knew who made the effort to clean her place up.

Argo, it appeared, had been fed and was out! Stood to reason Stephanie was coming back!

The thought made her legs feel like jelly, as if she didn't already feel weak at the knees with her flu bug.

It is six and the night certainly is becoming wild, surely she wouldn't be much longer, will she?

A shower was certainly calling to her as she waited for her loved ones to return, because that was how she felt about them both.

* * *

Damn! This weather is totally unpredictable. Argo and I will be getting soaked through and it is getting dark too. Guess it is time to call it a night for the dog although he did seem to enjoy his walk and the run in the park. He certainly didn't stray far and always came to heal at command. Louise has worked wonders on him in that department.

They got into the jag and made it fast back to the house.

Letting them in she towelled off Argo and gave him one of the treats shed found earlier when she cleaned up the kitchen.

Her hair needed drying and she was stumped as to where the towels would be.

Walking swiftly towards the bedroom of her sick friend she immediately noticed that Louise wasn't in the bed and that a shower was running. Not wanting to seem too forward she shouted loudly to the partially opened door. "How's it going?"

Steph thought she heard a thud and moved closer to the open door.

"Louise, are you okay?"

I can't stand this silence any longer. What if she has fallen? What if she was scared witless with my abrupt entry into her house? Whatever it is I need to know and know right now!’

Steph pushed open the door and almost knocked down the other woman. Her arms reached instinctively for Louise before the impact on them both could be felt.

Emerald green eyes looked up into ice blue ones, a tiny smile creased the corners of Louise’s mouth creating a picture for Steph that she never wanted to forget.

Her arms clasped the woman tighter as she spoke softly into her ear.

"I'm sorry if I frightened you. I'm also…sorry to come barging into your bathroom but I thought you might need me?"

When she holds me...I have never known a feeling so intense. As to her comment of needing me well….

"That's okay, I was about to come out. Steph, you didn't frighten me."

Louise spoke equally as soft and into the chest of the woman who held her tight. Steph continued to hold onto her precious parcel, losing track of why she was there.

"You're all wet?" Louise said finally looking into her eyes again.

"Yeah, walking with the dog seems to have that effect these days, huh?"

"Could use some drying off then?" Louise murmured into Steph’s collarbone.

"Are you offering?" Steph said huskily, her voice dropping to a seductive tone.

Louise looked back into those ice blue eyes and saw a flicker of…something not sure what, but it would certainly need exploring. Yeah, exploring seemed a very good idea to her.

"Yes…I’m offering. What type of towel do you want?" A sparkle of amusement in the younger woman's face triggered a similar response from the other.

Steph pulled back from her hold around the woman and propelled her into the other room.

"Go get dried yourself woman, cant have you getting any worse than you already are." Chuckling to herself as she went towards the cabinet Louise indicated held the towels.

Louise walked into the other room and suddenly felt a hundred times better than when shed first got out of bed. Maybe she was finally on the mend and it was certain Stephanie Gregarious was the tonic.

"Louise do you mind if I take a shower?"

"No, go ahead, help yourself." Louise carried on getting dressed and left the room as the other woman turned on the shower.

The house that appeared so quiet when she awoke was now vibrant, more alive than it had felt in a long time. Argo came out to enthusiastically greet her and she heard the sounds of her friend walking about the bedroom.

Never in all her life had she felt so glad to be alive and in her heart she suddenly realized her Grandparents were right.

There is always ‘Someone to watch over you’ you just have to be patient and wait for it to happen.
 

* * *

Chapter Four

Stephanie woke up in a strange room, not an unpleasant sensation, in the past that happened on numerous occasions but usually with someone beside her.

Looking around the room, realizing that indeed she wasn't alone! A large shaggy shape loomed in front of her as she moved. At first Steph didn't know what to think, then realized she was in Louise’s home, in the spare room and Argo was staring at her…well drooling over her would be a more apt description. Laughing to herself she pushed the dog to one side and climbed out of bed, checking her watch and finding it was seven in the morning. Hell, I feel good this morning. Time to check on my patient, a grumpy patient at that if last night was anything to go by. Well, maybe not grumpy all the time just when I told her to go to bed.

“I'm okay Steph I want to stay up and watch some more TV with you, it's too early to go to bed!”

“No! You're not okay and you're going to bed, end of story. I've been watching you for the last fifteen minutes and you have been dropping off to sleep most of them. Come on woman just give in and go to bed, it's good for you.”

Louise tried to look at the expression of her friend, Going to bed is good for me, yeah sure if a certain tall dark haired woman went with me. A weak smile was all she could muster though, as her illness decided to take its toll on her body. Maybe another time!

“Okay, but you're staying tonight? Right?”

Steph looked down at the woman nestled close to her; in fact you could say they were almost in each other's arms. Louise hadn't settled well when they began talking a few hours earlier, gradually Steph  offered a shoulder and it just seemed so right for both women.

“For you anything.” Steph responded in a light tone.

“Anything?”

“Well, perhaps I was a little rash there, almost anything. You have an uncanny way of changing the subject, but your still going to bed. Now woman get yourself there and I’ll bring you're medication, okay?”

Louise walked unsteadily towards the door and motioned her hand towards the door on the opposite side to her bedroom.

“The spare.”

Steph laughed at the action and went to pick up the medication. Can't have her suffering during the night, although she does look a little better than earlier in the day.

Louise was asleep when Steph came back into the room. Gently shaking her she said “Hey, time for more pills.”
Louise groggily woke up with a small smile edged up her face as she saw her nurse.

“Yeah pills. I hate taking them Steph, couldn't you give me some thing else that tastes better than this?” Louise said with a grimace as the pills went down with the cool water.

“Guess your wish is my command, how about this to sweeten the pill.” Steph said and bent down gently placing a kiss on Louise’s lips. Pulling away immediately, unable to gauge the reaction to her brand of sweetener.

Louise almost asleep by this time looked into ice blue eyes with green ones and smiled a gentle smile; “You can sweeten all my pills that way any time Steph.” and closed her eyes still carrying that smile with her to a dreamscape only she was privileged too.

Steph sighed. Is this the soulmate I have always sought and never thought existed? Am I wrong this time? I am going to take my time to find out that is for certain.

Steph walked into the kitchen and started the coffee machine, not sure if Louise would want coffee but she certainly needed it. The whole situation was getting somewhat muddled in her mind. Did I really briefly kiss Louise last night? Yeah I did and I feel very satisfied with the situation. Yet, I don't want to come on to her when she is ill. That wouldn't be right. My body felt so right with Louise snuggled up next to me... it felt like coming home. Hell I must really be lonely and spaced out thinking these sorts of thoughts. Maybe it's time to leave and get back to my apartment?

Steph contemplated that idea for all of thirty seconds and bounced it into the garbage can where it belonged. This isn't the one-night-stand scenario this is my soul I am arguing over. Right now nothing is as real as the woman in the opposite room. Time to get your act together Gregarious, she's too important to let go. So what, if I'm hurt again, maybe this time it is for keeps and I only have to jump through a few hurdles…first to get the prize and my God Louise Masterson is definitely a prize worth going the full term for.

Steph shrugged her shoulders and sauntered towards Louise’ bedroom door. Opening the door she noticed Louise curled up in a ball, fast asleep with a slight smile on her face.

“That looks good anyway.” Steph said to no one in particular.

Walking over to the bed she felt the woman's forehead. Thank goodness she feels cooler.

It was incredible that this person in front of her had the power to make her legs feel like jelly and her heart beat at least ten times more often than it should. Nothing ever prepared her for the feelings she had for Louise…only a warning from a certain friend some years ago that when she fell in love it would be heavy and without reservation. My friend you don't know how right you were, but then again next week maybe I will tell you or better yet, introduce you and see if you notice any changes in me.

Steph chuckled to herself and left the room. It seemed appropriate to take Argo for a walk and feel the cool breeze in her hair this morning…better than a cold shower!

* * *

Louise woke with the sun streaming into the room and for the first time in nearly a week she noticed the headache had faded to a dull ache, not the pounding she previously endured.

The house itself was quiet.

Where is Argo? He should be bounding into the room by now.

Argo has been amazing this past week!  The patience he had when I hadn't the strength to do more than let him into the garden, replace the water, and prepare his meals. Wow, a whiff of the canned dog food certainly brought on gut clenching queasiness every time I smelled its aroma. Don't want to do that again!

Steph stayed the night didn't she? Her cheeks went crimson when she remembered the light kiss that Steph had given her to sweeten the pills the night before. Did she mean that kiss or was it a friendly gesture? Time will surely take its course, bringing me the answers.  I hope and pray Steph will become the most important thing in my life. Wishful thinking Masterson! But, oh what a wonderful way to think!

Louise got out of bed and made her way to the kitchen and saw the coffee pot ready and waiting. Yes, today I feel like having coffee and maybe some more pills with the added attraction of Steph’s brand of sweetener.

With that thought came the sudden noise of a door opening and a large, shaggy dog running towards its owner in obvious pleasure.

“Hey Argo, down boy.” Louise laughed as the dog collided with her almost sending her to the floor. Looking towards the doorway she saw Steph leaning negligently against the door jam, smiling her enigmatic smile.

“I see you're up then? How do you feel today?” Steph said gently the amusement still evident in her tone.

Louise, looking into ice blue eyes, realized that after meeting this woman nothing was ever going be the same in her world again.

“Better thanks, headache is improving to only a dull ache now. I might be able to think more, who knows.” Louise smiled tentatively.

“Pleased to hear it, do you think you could stomach some breakfast? I suspect you haven't eaten in a while?”

“Thanks, I think I can manage something. I feel strange letting you do everything for me and in my own home too!”

Steph, looking at her and feeling her vulnerability, shrugged her shoulders and simply said “Return the favour one day.”

“Anytime.”

“So what does our patient want?”

* * *

The day went quickly for both women each finding out facets of the other in a short space of time; eventually it was time for Steph to leave.

“Will you be okay?” Steph asked in gentle tones.

“Yeah, I think you have done wonders in a couple of days with this patient.”

“Pleased I could be of assistance.” Her smile nearly sending Louise into a whirl.

“I was wondering if you wanted to come over for dinner one evening…. That's if you're not too busy of course, I realize I must have…have spoiled your weekend. I…just want to thank…” Louise trailed off as a finger was gently placed on her lips.

“I would be happy to come over for dinner one evening Louise and no, you didn't spoil my weekend, in fact it was enlightening.”

Louise never one to miss an opportunity, “Which day?”

Steph laughed at her reply. Walking towards Louise and grasping her hand, she gently stroked her finger down the palm, noticing the subtle change in Louise’ breathing.

“How about I call you in a couple of days and we arrange it from there?”

Louise wasn't sure if this was real or just a figment of her imagination. Steph holding her hand and stroking her palm was doing some amazing things to her senses. “Sure, I’ll give you the number.”

Steph, picking up the few items she'd brought over for the night and tickling Argo’s ear for good measure, once again looked into the green eyes opposite her. “Louise Masterson, take care of yourself, and if you need me… Call.”

With that Steph left sauntering towards the car in the driveway.

Louise wasn't sure exactly when she stopped gazing after Steph, but it certainly must have been some minutes after her car had gone from sight.

What's gotten into me? I'm like a lovesick schoolgirl who has a crush on her teacher. For god's sake I'm a teacher, can this be more ridiculous! Yet, she makes me feel light-headed and excited. All the things I've read in books that I considered romantic nonsense don't seem that way now. Well if this is romantic nonsense then count me in every single day of the week! Louise couldn't help but smile broadly and that smile never left her face even as she rested in bed a little later.

* * *

Stephanie arrived at the international airport on time, hoping Paul Ironside had finally managed to get his act together and was waiting for her on time. He wasn't there of course and she had to wait thirty minutes for him to arrive.

“Paul, glad you could finally…meet me!” she said sarcastically.

“Oh, come on now Steph, you know I've never been on time for anything in my life. Give a guy a break, and if you don't, how about give a friend a break?” his laughter was contagious.

“Paul, forget it. I need some rest and you're late!” she said in mock anger, laughing along with her friend as they amicably walked away from the terminal and to the car.

“So, how is Fay? And my beautiful goddaughter?”

Paul looked at her with affection and answered. “ Both of them are great, and how do you fancy being godmother to my next child?”

Stephanie looked at him and smiled right back into those grey eyes, which had held only friendship and love for sometime now.

“Hey, that's wonderful news, but what about another candidate for that post? Surely you want someone different?” She said, genuinely pleased they were increasing the family.

“There could never ever be anyone that would rate higher than you as a candidate. Unless of course you finally managed to settle down, now there might be a candidate in that! Then again, I know how hard it is to pin you down.” He laughed his infectious laugh.

Suddenly Stephanie went still and quiet as she contemplated that last sentence.  Have I fallen in love? I want Paul and his family to know and accept the person I have taken into my heart. Wonder what is Louise doing now?

Paul looked over his shoulder and saw the thoughts flashing over her face, maybe he had struck a home goal here, better get Fay working her over for the details.

* * *

Chapter Five

Louise feeling better over the past couple of days knew she could go back to work by the next week.

She phoned Stephanie and was given the number of her gallery to call. Jane, the assistant, told her Ms. Gregarious had been called away on business but would be back in three days for the opening of the new exhibition.

Louise felt frustrated and hurt that Steph hadn't called to say she was going away…there again why should she? I have no claim on her. For that matter Steph never has to see me again, if she doesn't want too. Something in her heart said that wasn't true and for once she was going to follow her heart, Steph is coming back and she is coming back to me!

* * *

Stephanie persuaded Paul and his family to come to Ampolisa for the opening of the exhibition. It was somewhat of a coup, as Paul never went to any of the first openings.

As she left her friend she had been smiling. In the early days the two had been at odds with each other but now it was a mutual admiration society.

“Stephanie Gregarious is the new assistant manager of the gallery, I expect you to give her all the co-operation that is required.” Jacob Pollard the current manager of the gallery in central Chicago said dramatically to the other employees.

Stephanie looked around the main art room with a hooded dark expression in her blue eyes. As her eyes wandered, they rested on each individual in the room who in return looked at her with equal parts interest and annoyance at another change in the establishment.

“Where did Ralston go?” Paul Ironside asked sharply.

Stephanie turned her eyes to look over at the only person to make a comment, a valid one under the circumstances. Unknown to the others Ralston had been removed to allow her to infiltrate the employee level and find out who was trying to sabotage the exhibitions and costing the gallery millions of dollars in lost revenues. Having been the only one who checked out free of any possible links to the problems, Ralston agreed readily to the plan to replace him temporarily with an agent.

Pollard cleared his throat, looking nervously towards the tall immaculately dressed woman; he hadn't expected anyone to question the change in staff. However, he should have known better with Ironside, the newest artist to join the select group that was being shown at the forthcoming exhibitions. “Well, Paul it's like this,” Pollard again looked towards the woman who raised her eyebrow disinterested with the situation or so it seemed. “Paul, Ralston was offered another position in another town with better prospects.”

“Bullshit! Frank wouldn't do that!” Paul Ironside said angrily and turned flashing eyes to the cold and composed woman who'd taken over.

“Did someone pay you? Or isn't that how it works these days? Exactly who did you have to sleep with to kick Frank out?” Paul spat at the tall dark woman; he saw the disinterested look be replaced by a spark of fire that made her blue eyes glow carrying a warning sign he chose to ignore.

Pollard shot the younger man a thunderous look, moving closer to him as a strong hand touched his shoulder and held him back. All the others in the room waited with bated breath to see what happened next.

Stephanie closed the gap between her and Ironside. He was nothing but a young upstart artist, who had no reputation save one he thought up himself. “Mr.. Ironside the last time I slept with someone for something it was my teddy bear called Hank, and that was for comfort when I was five years old! If you ever and I mean ever, say anything like that to me or about me again, trust me talented artist or not, you will find it difficult to paint without the use of your hands. Got me?” Steph replied her stance menacing, her voice cold and unrepentant at the words which echoed in his eardrums.

Ironside looked directly into cold blue orbs that now shone with a devilish gleam. He was left with no doubt that this woman would do exactly what she threatened. “I got you, but that doesn't mean I have to like it or you!” Paul replied defiantly his usual irrepressible sense of humour dampened.

“No problem to me Mr. Ironside, I doubt either one of us will regret not being friends.” Steph said icily and walked away to be introduced less formally to some of the others in the room.

“You're right there!” Paul said under his breath as he watched her tall figure walk away from him.

The old memories made her smile. Things changed dramatically and for the better. These days she couldn't think of her life without Paul in it somewhere.

Now, all she wanted was to go back…home! Well that was strange Ampolisa was home. No, it went deeper than that! Did she want to admit it to herself, or deny it as she always did? Louise Masterson, some how you have become a symbol of my home, you are my home!

Now all she wanted was to get back and see a certain blonde with green eyes who had the most amazing affect on her.

I think a ticket to the opening on Saturday would do the trick, and she did invite me for dinner, what a better day!

Stephanie Gregarious smiled broadly and had to stop herself from vaulting over the barrier.

* * *

Louise Masterson had been given a clean bill of health and could resume work the next week. She had no doubts about how that miracle had taken place or who had been responsible. Maybe it was time to talk to her family as she realized her life was changing drastically in a short space of time.

Stephanie had been appalled by the lack of support from my family; well she doesn't know everything that is for sure. How could I ever tell Stephanie what is on my mind, how alone I feel now, without her? Yet, Stephanie has opened up so many avenues for me to explore, could this really be happening to me? I need time to think; at the same time all I really wanted is to see Steph again. Not to touch, not to talk but just see her, at a distance would be fine; just to know she is there. These feelings are so odd to me it is incredible, yet it feels so right! Maybe Saturday will be a good day, perhaps we can take Argo for a walk and gradually fall into…Hell she didn't know, but she was willing to gamble everything for the opportunity to find out.

* * *

Stephanie had Jane send the opening day ticket to Louise. She herself hadn't had the time to call and confirm anything; it had just been too hectic. She just hoped Louise came; she wanted her to meet Paul and his family, more than that, she herself needed to see Louise! Whatever it would take she just needed to see those gentle green eyes gaze into hers.

Christ for the first time in my life I think I'm in love! God, how ironic it is for the ice bitch to be in love. Did it hurt, yes by hell it hurt? I have no control and what if she doesn't want me?

Stephanie looked over the gallery again and knew there was nothing more she could do. It was Friday at eleven p.m., time to call it a day and too late to call Louise or was it?

She dialled the number that was etched in her memory.

A rather groggy voice answered and Steph realized that perhaps it was the wrong time.

“Hello.” replied a sleepy voice.

Steph took several gulps of air before she spoke “ Louise, sorry I should have realized the time, I will call you in the morning.”

“NO! I'm awake. Don't go Steph, please.”

“Okay …just thought I would check and see that you were okay? Are you going to come to the exhibition tomorrow?”

Stephanie felt like a teenager being asked out on her first date.

“Yes I'm fine, the doctor gave me the okay to go back to work. Tomorrow, the exhibition, well I was in two minds really.” She said sincerely

“Why?”

It made Louise start and blush at the same time; fortunately a certain person couldn't see it. “I thought you would be too busy maybe.”

Stephanie mulled over this for all of two seconds.

“I will never be too busy for you, just remember that okay?”

Louise smiled and thought they were the most wonderful words she had ever heard.

“Guess I will see you there tomorrow then.”

“Pleased to hear it, you owe me dinner afterwards.” was the rejoinder back.

“For you, anytime.” Louise said in a low voice, hardly audible.

Stephanie's laugh sounded like a low growl, which only set Louise on an even bigger high than she had felt already with the call.

“Better let you go back to sleep. Sweet dreams Louise.”

“Thanks, you too.” Each with a wide smile as they disconnected the line.

* * *

The day of the Art exhibition couldn't be faulted, bright sunshine and comfortably warm without being oppressive.

Stephanie Gregarious had looked forward to this day for months. Not only was Paul a friend but a very talented artist who had no trouble exhibiting his creations anywhere in the World. This time, he had chosen to help a friend establish herself and what better way than with a Paul Ironside first day exhibition. Paul never aspired to the heights of celebrity stardom some of his peers achieved and craved for he was happy with his family and friends.

This lady was special though; she had broken all the rules for him in the early days and was the first person to buy, at a good price, his works.  In fact, they had a bargain that she would always have first refusal on any of his artistic wares. Yet he knew deep down that all Steph now wanted was to settle down somewhere and be accepted. That would be fine with him, especially if she found someone to share her life.

Fay hadn't been able to extract any more information from her other than wait for the day. It was one of those enigmatic remarks from Steph, which could mean today or just a day in the future. Yet, he felt in his bones today was the day! He wanted so much to like the person Steph decided was special enough for her to settle down or at least consider the possibility. Maybe they would have another godparent for their second child after all.

* * *

Chapter Six

She had taken Argo for a quick walk only to be delayed with numerous people asking how she was. Louise was surprised with the questions and asked how they had known. The usual remark was, that tall dark haired woman with Argo told us...she’s certainly intimidating on a dark night. This in itself brought a smile to Louise’s face along with a chuckle when she got home, wonder what Steph will say about that?

Now what to put out for dinner tonight, yes something simple…I know just the thing.

Walking quickly towards her bedroom to change, all her thoughts were now on how she could please the one person who had made her life come alive. Not even sure that was the correct expression, however she really didn't know how else to interpret it.

As she walked into the main gallery she saw the one person that no matter where, no matter what circumstances in her life, this vision would make her feel she was home.

Stephanie Gregarious walked into view, her smile one of practised courteousness.

Stephanie turned then, suddenly the light that had been missing in her life came into view and her smile took on a whole new dimension. She excused herself from possible clients and made her way quickly over to Louise.

“Hey Louise, how are you?” asking calmly but knowing her stomach was churning badly.

Louise looking at her smiled her most beguiling smile. “I'm good, and you?” replying with a silly smirk.

“Yeah I'm fine, would you like me to show you around the exhibition?”

Louise glanced over the room and noticed all the usual local dignitaries, unfortunately her father and his…friend, not to mention her sister with Dave in tow were there also.

“Maybe later, I think you have other people who might want the personal attention of one Stephanie Gregarious, makes sense if you want them to spend money. I can't afford any I'm afraid.” Wanting nothing more than to have Steph by her side Louise knew it would only create problems, especially with her family there.

Hell, I was naive to think they wouldn't come after all it is an important event. My Father certainly wouldn't miss an opportunity to be seen out and about with his latest 'friend.’ At least I have the pleasure of knowing I will see the hostess for dinner and in private! Yeah, I can live with that. Her smile deepened as she thought of the potential of the evening.

Steph, looking at her keenly and finding no sense of disappoint in her expression, smiled warmly. Pointing to a man in her peripheral vision she said. “Please go talk to Paul, he likes company and he can show you around.”

“He's my best friend Louise, I’d like you to meet him and his family. Although, if you don't want to meet him that's okay. I guess what I'm trying to say is… Louise, please see my friend…I want….” Suddenly an influx of people prevented the rest of the words being spoken.

Louise, looking at her friend smiled her wide-open smile.

“Sure no problem, just remember who you're having dinner with.”

Watching Louise’s retreating body, Steph muttered, “How could I forget”!  A smile hovering on her lips, Why would I want to forget?

* * *

Paul Ironside had seen Stephanie talking to an animated strawberry blonde woman. It wasn't difficult to see the attraction for his best friend, yet did the other woman feel the same? All he wanted was to make sure Steph didn't suffer heartache over this. Everything else in her life had gone sour, she had fought the battles and won some and lost more, maybe it was time she won a war to even the scorecard.

The woman was heading his way, what better timing.

“Hi?” Paul said grinning at the young woman with the open friendly face.

“Hi, yourself, Steph asked me to introduce myself, I'm Louise Masterson!”

His grin widened, “She wanted me to show you around the exhibition, right?” Nodding Louise grinned as he took her arm slowly moving around the exhibitions explaining each one in detail. At the same time managing to find out bits and pieces about her in the process.

* * *

Steph was intrigued with the arrival of Henry Masterson to the opening and wondered if Louise had seen her father. He was escorting a young woman who had long chestnut hair and fragile features very like a porcelain doll, obviously many years his junior.

Glancing at the other couple with them, she noticed a faint resemblance to Louise, yes that must be the sister! The man was a different entity altogether, dark looks, handsome and at least six feet, five inches in her estimation. He looked the rancher type and she could see him looking over to a certain blonde deep in conversation with her friend Paul. She also noticed his eyes gentle as he looked her way and who wouldn't blame him.

I hope she only sees him as a friend, what would I do if it was anything deeper, guess I’d better check that out tonight.

“Ms. Gregarious, glad you could spare the time to go over the exhibits with us.” Henry Masterson boomed out.

“My pleasure Mr.…?” Steph replied immediately giving him a false smile.

“Masterson, and this is Cheryl a dear friend of mine. My daughter Kay and Macklin my ranch manager.” He said with clipped authority.

Steph shook hands with each individually noticing that no one spoke other than to nod their head in acknowledgement of the introduction.

“Well, it's a pleasure to meet you all,” Steph smiling her most disarming smile while looking over to where Louise was laughing at a comment made by Paul.

“I know your daughter Louise, Mr. Masterson. In fact she's over there with the artist.” Steph couldn't resist the jab; Masterson appeared to be overly confident.

Henry Masterson, looking flabbergasted, gazed over and saw his eldest daughter with the famous artist laughing.

“How… how does she know Mr. Ironside? Louise has never been to any kind of town function before!” his face turning a ruddy colour in outrage.

“Actually, Paul is a friend of mine, Louise is my friend also. Therefore, I guess that's the reason for it.” Steph said quietly with a small smile.

“That means we get to meet the great man.” He spit out.

Steph eyed him keenly replying. “Depends if you're a customer or not, he only ever meets the buyers not the window shoppers!”

Henry Masterson hadn't liked the look of this confident woman but as she owned the studio and many of the local dignitaries said she was independently wealthy, he felt it was necessary to at least be civil.

Now she is baiting me and to cap it all she was friendly with Louise. How on earth has my insipid daughter managed to become friends with this woman? It isn't as if they have anything in common! I will get Macklin to quiz Louise shortly and find out how the land lies. So, I have to buy something to meet the pompous ass called an artist, easy enough, I have money!

“Let's see how good you are at selling the merchandise then!” he responded spitefully.

Steph looked him over with eyes filled with ice. Perhaps now she knew why there was little contact between Louise and her family and wasn't she glad of that point. Her friend could certainly do without that type of man in her life even if he was her father.

“No one has ever complained before.” Motioning them forward through the exhibition.

* * *

Louise couldn't help but like Paul Ironside, he had such an infectious laugh and his sense of humour was amazing. He even had a few snippets about Steph that they both found highly amusing.

Looking at him as he stared at the older woman at the opposite end of the gallery, she saw the gentleness in his gaze and his obvious devotion to Steph.

Yeah, this man is certainly going to be a good friend if I don't do anything to jeopardize my relationship with Steph. No way in hell am I going to do that any day soon!

Paul looked back to his companion smiling playfully.

"I see Steph’s in full sales pitch mode, she hates the sales side of the business but she's good. She can sell almost anything to anyone, especially men; they just look at her and usually have their check books ready. Although, I sometimes wonder if they think they might have a claim on something more personal other than the merchandise. Mind you, she's superb when she gets mad with a client and they refuse to buy if there's nothing personal on the side from her. I could tell you stories that would make your hair curl." Chuckling at the statement as a memory obviously popped into his mind.

Louise couldn't help but grin back at the man, wondering if she would succeed with her father. Then again Henry Masterson wouldn't want to be outdone by some of the other town dignitaries if they had bought and some certainly had.

Louise, looking at a particular landscape scene that was very vivid and totally captivating to the eye, noticed a sticker indicating it was not for sale and wondered why. It certainly was the best in the whole collection of Paul's work exhibited in the gallery.

"Paul, why isn't this picture for sale?" she asked tentatively.

Paul looked waving his hand towards a certain mutual friend. "It doesn't belong to me, it's my friend's."

"You're kidding right? If the price of some of the other work is anything to go by it must be worth a fortune." Louise spluttered out.

"Yes, it probably would be worth a fortune to some, to me and to Steph it's a picture we both understand. It was painted for her, so I guess it has more of an emotional value to us both than monetary one." He said quietly as he contemplated the landscape.

Louise just shook her head in disbelief.

Paul quickly moved towards the door as a woman approached holding the hand of a small child. Louise watched him kiss the woman tenderly then reach down to pick up the child who hugged him hard placing small, wet kisses all over his face.

"Daddy, Mommy said we can go to the park soon." Grace Ironside spoke in her small whispering voice.

"Yeah sweet thing, soon. After Mommy has a rest and a drink you and I can go for a walk around okay?" Paul glancing at his wife gently placed his hand on her shoulder as he steered her towards a seat next to Louise.

"Louise, this is my wife Fay. Fay this is Louise Masterson a good friend of Steph’s." Winking to his wife as he smiled.

Louise looking at the young woman, smiled warmly as they shook hands.

"Hello Fay, your husband really is talented and…amusing." She was perplexed by the intensity of the glance this woman was giving her... making her feel as if she were a slide under a microscope.

"Hello Louise. Thank you, my husband is very amusing but can be intolerable at times…your Steph’s friend? She mentioned a new friend when she was visiting last week, but didn't give much away as usual. If you don't mind the curiosity of a good friend of the family, how long have you known her?" Fay smiling directly into Louise’s eyes with only friendliness.

"How long? You ask me how long...well it seems like a lifetime when it's only..." She continued her conversation with Paul's wife, warming to her subject.

* * *

Dave Macklin was having difficulty pinning Louise down, if she wasn't with the artist, it was his wife or the damned secretary of the gallery's owner. Fortunately the owner didn't appear in the equation, which was just as well as that woman could intimidate the best of men.

Noticing an opening and swiftly took it.

"Hey Louise!"

"Dave, how good to see you." Louise said with a smile as she hugged him.

"Glad you still remember me, you haven't been home in awhile have you?"

"No, I guess I haven't, not much there for me now Dave." She said shrugged her shoulders.

Looking downcast at the statement Dave knew in his heart that Louise was never, ever going to look at him in quite the way he wanted.

"Yeah I guess so, you and your father don't exactly see eye to eye do you? That's why I'm here now, he wants to know how you know the owner of the gallery." He sheepishly admitted.

Louise smiled weakly, craning her neck to get a good look at this ‘giant’ of a man who had always been there for her no matter the circumstances. Although if he knew which way her thoughts were leaning these days would he understand?

"Steph? He wants to know about Steph, why?" She spoke quietly.

Dave looking down at the one woman who always managed to set his heart racing shrugged his shoulders. "You know your father, even if he can't influence anything you do, he still wants to try. To be honest I think the woman scared the hell out of him. No one ever questions your father, do they?"

Both shaking their heads remembering their own particular memory of her father and his arrogant attitude towards people and events!

"Well, good for Steph, makes a change for the great man to meet his match, so Dave what do you think about her?" Although she did not care what he thought, she hoped he would have a good impression of her friend.

Dave glanced towards the enigmatic woman, she certainly was beautiful, but not his type, he preferred the attributes of the woman at his side. He secretly applauded Steph when she took notice of Masterson's arrogance and lowered her voice to intimidate him. When she did that it was enough to send his knees weak, and he wasn't interested! Christ, what she must do to you if you did happen to fall for her.

"I find her fascinating, and if she's a friend of yours, well Louise it goes without saying she's certainly got a friend here. Why not introduce us?" Noticing Louise visibly relax at the genuine reply.

"Sounds like a good idea to me, wonder where she is?" Louise glancing around found Steph was in fact staring straight at her companion with a strained expression on her face.

Louise waved at Steph who looked at her, then grinned, moving swiftly to her friend's side.

"You wanted me?"

While taking them around the gallery, this tall man said nothing but kept looking in Louise’s direction every chance he had, this un-nerved her to a degree. She politely smiled and said "We meet again Mr. Macklin."

Louise was a little surprised by Steph’s cold greeting of her friend.

Dave looking at the woman and was taken aback by the icy glare he was receiving.

"So, it would appear. As Louise is an old friend, we decided maybe you and I should meet a little less formally, as a friend." He stated nonplussed.

Steph shrugged her shoulders, totally disinterested in his comment.

Louise puzzled by this coldness in her friend and gently put a hand on her arm.

"Dave and I go way back, we met in kindergarten and you know how it is? He works for my father at the ranch, so we have remained good friends." Trying to defuse the tension around them.

"How much of a good friend are you?"

How stupid and domineering must I sound? What has gotten into me? Oh, I know all right! Jealousy! Out and out green-eyed monster jealousy, and now I must answer to it.

Looking at each other both Louise and Dave were embarrassed by the question. Louise clearing her throat ready to answer only Dave got there before her.

"Not that it's got anything to do with you of course, but as a friend of Louise’s, I don't mind admitting that I love her. And, if she ever got around to seeing me as anything other than the boy next door I would rush her up the aisle now! Does that answer your question?"

Having seen Louise’s confusion he spoke abruptly; no supposed friend was ever going to hurt her in any way.

Stephanie glancing around noticed no one else heard his or her conversation. Looking directly at him she held out her hand. "I'm really sorry Dave, that was uncalled for. If you can forgive me, I promise never to breach that particular wall again." Speaking with genuine regret.

Dave, staring into her ice blue eyes, saw they were filled with friendly warmth. You could drown in them. "Sure, no problem."

What's with Steph and this attitude and comment of hers? What's with Dave and his confession of love? I've always known he loves me but as a friend. Right? Wow, I must be way off base with that one!

Eyeing them both, she turned first to Dave giving him a reassuring smile. Then smiled warmly at Steph, whose head was bowed in what could only be described as a cross between embarrassment and shame.

"I guess now that we've all met officially, how about a drink to celebrate a great exhibition?"

Passing between the two of them, she placed her hands on each of their arms, walking with them towards the refreshment area. Louise taking the opportunity to squeeze Steph’s arm, glancing at her briefly noticing the strain around her eyes.

Steph looking at the woman by her side knew for the first time in her life what love was. It was that feeling of no matter what she had done the person she loved, would always find a reason for it, support or forgive, whatever it took.

Closely surveying the features of her younger companion, she  also realized for the first time in her life that someone else had the right to question her. Make her accountable and credible when all else failed. Finally she had Someone to watch over her now that was one hell of a feeling. It was the best feeling ever!

* * *

Chapter Seven

The exhibition was almost over and as usual Stephanie charmed the would-be clients. In fact she had done too much! There was little left to sell to the big punters in New York, which would really tick off the other gallery owners. Paul had been delighted, the new owners of his work enjoyed themselves and he had seen love unfold before his very eyes. Oh Steph you're in real big trouble now. Wonderful though!

Louise looked at her father and his friend. Does he really have to parade his very young women friends in the face of his daughters?

"Guess it was his way of saying he is still attractive to the opposite sex. Although it's obvious he only keeps them around for a short time for their bodies." Whispering into the empty area she occupied.

She looked at her sister Kay, now there was a person to salvage. She had been at the beck and call of their father from birth or that's how it had seemed to Louise. Nothing can be done tonight but one day Kay I'm gonna show you how to live.

Steph, deciding to get some space between her and her friend after her jealous outburst, walked towards Louise after an absence of a couple of hours. It had been nothing short of embarrassing all around.

"Are you ready to go?"

Louise, being immediately captured by the icy blue eyes saw the sensual message hidden beneath the gaze.

"Yeah I'm ready, what about you?"

Steph smiled discerning a blush appearing on Louise’s cheeks.

"I have to clear some papers, settle Paul and his family in the hotel, then I'm free for anything."

"Good, because I have plans for you Ms. Gregarious, any complaints?"

A smirk crossed Steph’s face as she answered. "No, I think any plans you have for me Ms. Masterson, will be just fine."

Louise had trouble breaking away from the ice blue eyes that pinned her down.

"Good, eight p.m. my place and ...you're not allowed to be late!" Louise remarked over her shoulder as she left the gallery.

"Late! No way in hell am I gonna be late Louise, you have my total attention to whatever you desire."

Turning to watch the final clients depart, leaving her, Paul, his family and the assistant, to close up for the evening.

* * *

Louise decided to take the more scenic drive home giving her more time to think about her afternoon. I am certainly looking forward to this evening. I hope….no,… I know, exactly how Steph feels about me…she was so cute when she was jealous of Dave. I can't believe how incredibly happy the thought of her makes me.

Glancing in her rear-view mirror she saw a car approaching fast behind her. Negotiating the upcoming bend carefully hoping the vehicle would slow a little. Having very little passing space, this wasn't the easiest of roads to drive at full speed. The approaching car slowed down but kept a none-the-less menacing stance right up behind her bumper.

Then all hell broke loose!

As the vehicle behind accelerated at a break neck speed her car was forced off the road. Her head hitting the windscreen causing her to feel helpless and disorientated then as the car pitched into a tree she lost consciousness.

Although she thought it was hours later, it was in fact only seconds later when she came round. Four shadowy figures emerged in front of her and before she could pushdown the locks the door was yanked open! I know these faces! They are familiar aren't they? The faces held no compassion only an evil intent. The last coherent thing she remembered was a young man's voice saying "It's pay back time bitch and how I'm gonna enjoy this."

* * *

Steph, setting out for Louise’s home, was in one of the best moods she could ever remember being in. Paul and Fay wanted to invite them to dinner but she declined and taken a great deal of ribbing from Paul for her efforts. Her smile had been payment enough for them; they had never seen her look so relaxed in the twelve years they had known her.

Arriving at her destination she noticed the house was in darkness.

Hell, I know she said not to be late but surely she's not expecting us to eat in the dark? A niggling doubt started in the pit of her stomach, manifesting itself when she heard Argo barking. Something just isn't right here.

Steph, looking around the outside of the house couldn't find any evidence of Louise having arrived home.

Oh God, I hope nothing has happened to her, it couldn't have! I'm panicking for no reason right? I can't let anything happen to her, oh no this is too right for things to go wrong now!

Hearing a vehicle turn up the drive, her heart pounded in anticipation. The police? The officer stepping out of the vehicle walked straight towards her.

"Hi, do you know the person who lives here?"

Steph wanted to ask outright what the problem was but resigned herself to waiting.

"Yes, Ms. Masterson. We had dinner plans, but she's not home it seems."

The officer gave her an intent stare before answering.

"Ms. Masterson was in…a car accident earlier this evening, she's in the hospital." He looked as if he wanted to say more and thought against it. This woman was looking at him as if he had been personally responsible for the