Fatal Deception

Fatal Deception

Prologue

He walked through the door, exhausted from the long hard drive. He had been away for three days on a last minute business trip. He was glad to be home. Home to his new bride of one month.

He dropped his briefcase and coat by the door and slung his keys onto the table next to it. He began to walk slowly, looking for the one he loved more than anything in this world.

She had heard his car drive up and scurried downstairs into the sitting room, making sure the champagne was chilled just right. She was a tall blond with crystal blue eyes. She wore a white teddy with sheer robe to match. She laid seductively on the camel back sofa. Awaiting his entrance.

He could barely catch his breath, following the fragrance of the perfume into the sitting room. His eyes falling on the beautiful creature that was his alone. He is nearing sixty now, but had the body of an thirty year old. She is twenty-seven. He at first thought she couldn’t love him. But she has shown him that and more in the few months they have known each other.

She holds two glasses in her hands and beckons for him to come sit down next to her. He obliges. Handing him the glass, they stare into each others eyes lovingly. They sip the beverage and smile from the tingling feeling flowing through their bodies.

“Come!” She says, leaving the sofa and taking his hand into hers. He is her submissive. She could ask him for the world. He would try to give her the universe if he could.

She looks at him with hungry eyes, which arouses him. She knows she has him whipped. She leads him up the staircase and into the bedroom. She began to disrobe him of his clothing. She looks down at his package and knows what’s on his mind.

“No just yet! Come with me!” She says, leading him into the huge master bathroom. He sees she has prepared him a bath and quickly gets in. Allowing the soothing warm water to caress his body.

“Nice!” He says, sinking down further into the water. She walks over to a radio perched at the foot of the tub and turns it on. Soft easy music comes through. She stands there smiling at her husband. He returns the smile.

“Join me.” He extends his hand to her. She looks into this eyes regrettably.

“I wish I could. But I can’t.” She answers. He pouts.

“Why?” He asks. She leans against the wall and her eyes changes into cold hard white orbs.

“Because I must bid you farewell.” She says. His head slightly tilts, not sure of what she has just said. But soon found out, as her hand slid the radio into the tub.

She turns, as the radio touches the water and hearing the sizzling noise behind her. His body shakes and jerks unto the last electricity within him has spent. She saunters over to the bed, never looking back. Then sitting down on the side of the bed, picks up the phone receiver.

She punched the three numbers and listen for the voice on the other end to come through.

“9-1-1!” It came loud and clear.

“H-e-l-l-l-p! My husband........he’s dead!” She screamed hysterically.

“Your husband is dead you said Ma’am?” The voice asked.

“Yes, yes, yes! Oh please, help me!” She cried into the phone.

“Someone is on there way now Ma’am. Tell me what happened.” The person on the other end informed her and asked.

“He was taking a bath and listening to music as he always does. I don’t know if he tried to get up and change the channel or not. All I know (pause) I heard a splash and then saw the lights flicker. I ran as quickly as I could to the bathroom (pause) and turned away.” She grew silent for a moment.

“It was just too horrible to see. Please come and help me!” Her voice faded into a whisper, as she laid the phone down. The voice from the other end called to her. She sat staring and listening to the sirens fast approaching.

Chapter One

The two motorcycles sped down the path side by side, neck and neck. One noticeably larger than the other. The dust rose like a heavy cloud behind them. A huge man stood on the porch, leaning on a the post. Watching intensely, as the two closed the distance to the house.

Suddenly without warning the smaller bike let out a burst of speed and left the larger one in its dust. The bike came to a halt right in front of the man. He looked down smiling, as the larger bike came up to join them.

“Well Bro’! It looks like she’s ready.” He commented as the huge man turned the key shutting off the engine of the bike. The smaller biker pulled off the helmet to reveal gorgeous thick red hair. And piercing green eyes. She smiled, looking from Kane to the other huge man.

“Yep!” He grunted. And dismounted the bike, pulling the dark glasses from his face, revealing the same piercing eyes. They met the young woman’s proudly.

“She’s ready!” He finished, moving up to her and giving her a pat on the head.

“Oh Dad! Must you do that?” She snatched her head from under his hand.

“What?” He said, as she sneered and ran into the house.

“You have a good kid there.” Kane reminded him. He looked up towards his brother, then to the doorway where she had just disappeared.

“Yep! That she is. Her mother would be proud of the young woman she turned out to be.” Undertaker turned from his brother and looked over his ranch he had custom built for the love of his life.

“It’s been seven years now, Taker! Alondra will be going to college soon. You’ll be alone. You really should be thinking about what you’re going to do with yourself. Now that the daughter you used for an excuse not to date, has gone to make a life for herself.

Taker looked back to his brother than back to the open ranch. He heard Kane’s footsteps fade into the house. It had been a long time since the death of his beautiful Clarice. She had blown into his life and out just as quick. Leaving a broken heart and a newborn to tend to. That may have been what helped him through his grief. Caring for Alondra.

Taker picked up a dry piece of grass, fumbling with it deep in thought of what will his life be like. When she has gone off to college in the fall. They had been inseparable since her birth. It’s going to take some readjusting for sure. He tossed the grass in the air, watching it struggle to the ground.

“Taker, phone call!” The dark haired beauty called from the doorway. Taker turned to stare his brown-eyed sister-in-law in the face. Kane and her had moved in when Clarice died. Having her around kept Alondra somewhat feminine.

“Okay, thanks Blair!” He yelled back and started up towards the house. As he entered Alondra was just jumping down the stairs. Her hair was covered with a towel as evidence she had just taken a shower.

“Girl you know better than to come down here with your hair not yet dried. Why do we spend money on a dryer if you’re not going to use.” Blair began to fuss at Alondra.

“I want it to air dry!” Alondra replied running into the kitchen for a snack. Taker smiled. He was very grateful for the love Blair had given his daughter. She filled in very well. He turned his attention to the phone and picked up the receiver.

“Yeah!” He said. It was Vince McMahon!

“I’m sending a crew out to each of my superstars homes to do a spread for a magazine due up in the spring of next year. Yours will be the first place they hit.” Vince informed him. Taker knew it was no use arguing.

“When?” Is all he would say.

“Two days!” Vince answered.

“TWO DAYS??” Blair yelled after hearing the news.

“I can’t get this house in order in two days.” She rambled on. Kane looked over to Taker and they both smiled. He then walked up behind his wife and wrapped his arms around her.

“Relax baby!” He said to her. She did, in his arm. Then exhaled.

“I already hired a cleaning agency. They’ll be here first thing in the morning. Now calm down, Blair.” He said, then looked back as he walked out of the room.

“Before you rupture something.” He laughed as she tried to get away from Kane and do some damage.

Chapter Two

Taker laid in bed, getting one of the best sleeps he has had in a very long time. But something was interrupting this peaceful bliss. Sounds coming form outside of his mind. Voices! Women voices! And they were going at it.

He began to stir, exiting the land of slumber. Wakening up, he heard the commotion coming from downstairs. Turned lazily over onto his side, snatching the clock from it’s perch on the nightstand. He glared at the time. Six o’clock!

He jumped out of bed and grabbed his jeans. He swung open the door, allowing it to slam against the wall, as a warning he was now officially woke. His feet hit each step with a loud stomp, as he made his way down the stairs. To see who and why was this going on so early in the morning.

That’s when he saw her, a tall raven haired beauty. Trying to explain to a short fiesty brunette, why they had arrived early and no one was notified. Undertaker foot hit the floor. She turned her attention away from Blair and crystal blue eyes penetrated the green pools staring at her.

“What’s going on here?” He asked, a little annoyed his sleep was cut short. She moved pass Blair and slowly walked towards him, explaining what she had been trying to explain to Blair.

“I’m sorry Sir! As I was trying to explain to your wife........” She was cut off by a sound from behind her.

“Oh Hell no honey. You have that very wrong! I ain’t no wife of his!” Blair snorted. The young woman looked back at her then to him.

By this time the whole house was woke. A sleepy eyed Kane and Alondra joined the group. Kane continued over to Blair and try to calm her down. Alondra came up to her father’s side and hooked her arm in his. The young woman eyes settled on the pretty young red head with such knowing eyes.

“I’m so embarrassed. This is your wife?” The four let out boisterous laughter. The woman looked around, not sure what it was she had said that was so funny. All was laughing she noticed, but Alondra.

“I’m not his wife. I’m his daughter.” She said, turned and walked towards the kitchen. The young woman rubbed the back of her neck and allowed a long breath to escape.

“Now that I have thoroughly made a complete fool out of myself.” She started.

“No you didn’t. I’m not married. So let’s clear that up before another female enters the room and you mistake her for my missus. She died years ago at childbirth. You should know that since you will be spending sometime with us.” Taker began to open up.

“Well, I’m going to get some breakfast going. You and your men ate yet?” She asked the woman. She shook her head.

“No Ma’am. Not yet. And you can call me Deidra.” She responded to Blair. Blair stared for a second then nodded her head.

“My name is Blair. I’m married to the other brother, Kane!” She said and left the room.

“Deidra huh?” Taker repeated. She looked up at him and smiled.

“You can call me Taker. So where do you want to began after breakfast?” He asked and walked over looking at the equipment out side the door. Kane had already gone out inspecting everything and talking to the crew.

“I’m not sure. Maybe you would like to talk about your wife?” She said. Taker’s head snapped around to her. She stepped backwards. Seeing the rage in his eyes.

“Let’s get something straight. My wife and daughter are not to be spoken of. Is that clear. I have hid her for some time and the fact that I’m a widower. It’s no ones concern. This is about Kane and I. Not ever Blair!” He was very emphatic.

“Yes, sure. I didn’t know! Sorry!” She apologized for being so intrusive. Taker rubbed his eyes and let out some air.

“No, I’m sorry! I shouldn’t have bitten off your head. You had no idea.” Taker looked at her. He just then realized how clear her eyes were. Like an Angel.

“Okay! If I should over step my bound. Please feel free to correct me. I want this to go as smoothly as possible. No mistakes.” She smiled. He laughed and nodded.

“I don’t like her.” Alondra said, walking back into the kitchen. She had heard and seen the exchange between her father and Deidra.

“You don’t even know her. Now stop and help me get this food on the table. We got a long few days ahead.” Blair scolded.

Alondra did as she was told and carried a platter into the dining area sitting it on the table. She paused in time to see Deidra fumbling around with something. Feeling someone staring at her, Deidra looked up into the stern eyes of Alondra. She didn’t back down. If she was going to be here a few days, the little girl will have to know something. She doesn’t scare so easily.

Alondra caught her drift. Just as quick as they had locked eyes, they release the other. She then turned and walked back into the kitchen to finish setting the table. Deidra smiled, feeling she had won this round. But knew there were a few more ahead. This job won’t be as easy as the others. She hadn’t known about the daughter. But then, it won’t matter. She went out on the porch and began to talk to Taker and Kane.

Chapter Three

Everyone enjoyed the breakfast prepared by Blair and thanked her as they rose from the table. Two of the crewmen began taking plates from the table in an attempt to assist her in cleaning up. They felt that was the least they could do for such a hearty meal. She wouldn’t have it and shooed them away. Stating all they would do is get in the way.

During the meal Alondra kept peering over her fork at Deidra. There was something definitely not right about her and she was going to find out. Especially since she seemed to have caught her father’s eye.

Deidra was very much aware Alondra was watching her. She felt uncomfortable and uneasy. She tried push it out of her mind, as Taker seemed to have much to say to her. She breathe a little after the meal was over and she knew her day would began. And since it was already understood neither Blair or Alondra would be in the sessions, she felt better.

“Man, I don’t feel like doing a thing after that meal.” She said walking out the front door with Taker at her side.

“Yeah. Blair is a damn good cook. She always cooks big meals. Even though Kane and I are the only big eaters.” Taker walked to the end of the porch and propped his foot up on a bottom rail, leaning over it. He loved to do this after his meals. Especially at night. Looking over his ranch. It always seemed to give him time with Claire.

“I can see that Alondra doesn’t eat much. She just picked at her food.” Deidra injected. Taker turned his head in her direction puzzled.

“No, Alondra eats well. Just doesn’t seem to gain weight.” He replied. Deidra tilted her head slightly.

“Oh okay! Maybe it was having unexpected company for breakfast.” She devised. Taker stood up and turn to her.

“I guess I was to busy talking to notice. She didn’t eat much?” He asked. She looked at him and began to walk away. Taker watched her carefully.

“I don’t know Taker. But I did a study on eating disorders. I’m not saying she has one, but you may want to watch her closely. You did say she eats but doesn’t gain.” She suggested. Taker eyebrows grew together.

“Where would you like to began. Photos or story. Just remember what I told you before. My daughter, wife and sister-in-law are not to be discuss.” He switched the conversation, staring coldly at her.

“Yeah understood! We can start with photos. I would like to get you around your beautiful ranch.” She concurred. He nodded. Just then Alondra floated out on the porch. His went from Deidra to her.

“Auntie Blair and I are going to town. She told me to tell you that. And ask with we could drive the SUV?” She walked over to him as he dug in his pocket and realized he didn’t have his keys on him.

“Yeah, I think it would be best if you two were out of the way>“ He joked and headed for the door to go get his keys. Alondra went to the same spot her father had left and mimicked what he had done earlier. Diedra watched her. She truly was her daddy’s girl.

“You miss you Mom very much don’t you?” She asked kindly and trying to communicate with the young lady. Alondra’s head snapped towards her.

“What do you know about my mother? Oh, I see! My dad told you, huh? Well, he may be fooled by you, but I’m not. So never ever, talk to me ablut my mother!” She screamed at her and rushed pass her nearly knocking her to the ground. She was able to brace herself against the wall. At that same time Taker and Blair was coming out the house. They watched as Alondra stormed towards the garage. Then looked over to Deidra.

“What the.......?” Blair said and rushed to catch up with Alondra. She would have to give that girl a good talking to about disrespecting company.

“I’m sorry! I was trying to strike up a conversation. I guess I should have taken your advice.” She looked up at him, knowing what was going tohappned.

“What did you say?” He asked, his eyes fixed on the garage where he could hear Blair scolding Alondra. He watched as Kane left the men setting up and went into the garage to defuse the situation.

I was trying to get her to like me by sympathizing with her.” She began to walk and wring her hand.

“How?” He asked, turning from the garage as the SUV exited with the two women in it. Alondra was turned completely to the window, not looking at anything in particular. And of course Blair’s mouth was going a mile a minute. Kane followed the SUV out and watched as they headed down the road.

“I tried to make her understand I knew how much she missed her mother. She seemed so sad staring out, like you do.” Her eyes turned a soft crystal blue, as she let him know how much she knew he missed his wife. Their eyes locked for a moment. And in that time it seemed as if it was just the two of them and no one else in the world.

“I tell you. Alondra really has Blair’s goat. Maybe we should have kids of our own. She’s really going to miss Alondra when she goes to school in the fall.” Kane said interrupting the moment. Taker turned his eyes from her and to Kane.

“Well I guess you should get started on that like yesterday.” Taker kidded his brother. Kane laughed and looked to Deidra.

“Josh said he needed to know where will ya’ll be starting?” Kane passed on the message. Deidra looked at Taker then Kane.

“I’ll go and let them know. I think in front of your ranch house would be a nice start.” She informed the tow brothers and brushed pass Taker, leaving a tingling in his groin. One he hadn’t felt in a very long time.

“Nice!” Kane said, nudging his brother. Taker never responded. His eyes set on her as she moved from the house and began to talk with her men.

Chapter Four

Deidra directed the photo sessions. She knew exactly how she wanted to present the two brothers home on the ranch. She picked the various spots on the ranch that was good setting for the layout.

She took a great interest in Taker’s motorcycles. He caught that. Maybe he would see if she knew how to ride and if she wanted to take a spin.

She felt much at ease not that Alondra wasn’t around glaring at her every move. She felt so comfortable, she would freely touch Taker from time to time. Positioning him how she wanted him. Their eyes caught each other more than once or twice. Kane noticed there was definitely some sparks between the two. He could only hope the best for his brother.

It had been a busy day for the two women of the house. Blair had only meant to spend a couple of hours away, but with Alondra’s attitude she thought it a good idea to keep her out until nearly dark. By that time the magazine people should be gone.
They took in a nice movie, something Alondra wanted to see.

Then they went to a nice spa. This seemed to relax Alondra. Blair knew her girl. Though she was raised on an ranch. Blair had worked on toning down the tomboy in her. She made it a point to instill in her, men are men and women are women. She started getting her use to going to salons, spas, massages, manicures and pedicures at an early age.

This helped to preserve the feminine side of her. This is what made Taker appreciate having Blair around. Something he wouldn‘t have been able to do.

“So how do you feel now?” Blair asked as they headed to the SUV. Alondra had a smile on her face. She enjoyed these outings with her Auntie Blair. She knew what to do when she was upset.

“You know I feel good.” She laughed. Blair nodded and unlocked the door. They got in the vehicle. Blair rambled in her purse for something and finding it pulled out a piece of paper.

“Man, we have a lot of grocery to get. I think I’m going to have them deliver this time around. Want to get something to eat?” She looked over to Alondra, as she tuned on the SUV and started out of the parking space.

“That sounds good. Oh, I heard about this new place. Can we try it out.?“ Alondra asked excitedly. Neither noticed the car that had been following them since they arrived in town and was now behind them.

It had been a grueling and exhausting day. Evening was slowly approaching. Deidra wanted to get back to town before night fall. She told the crew to call it a day and pack up.

Kane went into the house to give Blair a call. Letting her know the Deidra and crew were calling it a day. Deidra headed for the garage to get a better look at the bikes while her crew was putting things together. Taker saw her go in and came to join her.

“You ride?” He asked, entering the garage. She jumped, not knowing he had saw her come in.

“A little. Not the expert that you are.” She stoked his ego. He nodded.

“Maybe before you leave we can go for a spin.” He rubbed his hand on one of his bikes, staring down at it. She tilted her head to the side, smiling.

“Is that a offer for a date?” She asked. Taker looked up at her, staring deeply into her eyes.

“Maybe!” He said, turned and walked out of the garage. Deidra hugged herself and laughed. This was going great. It was more than she could have hoped.

Blair and Alondra were eating when she got the call from Kane. She explained they had just started to eat and would be home when they had finished. Kane asked if Taker and him should throw something together since its obvious she wouldn’t be cooking tonight if she was eating out. She told him that would be their best bet.

“Don’t tell me! That was Uncle Kane?” She asked as her Aunt closed the cell phone and replace it back in her purse.

“Yeah! The magazine folks are packing it in. We can officially come back. I explained we’re eating now and they should find something to eat for dinner. I’m not going to be in the mood to cook a thing.” She looked over her plate and decided where to start.

“Excuse me!” A voice came from the other table behind them. Both turn their heads in its direction.

“Yes?” Blair asked. A medium height woman, with dark auburn hair and light brown eyes, rose from her table and came over to them.

“Hi! My name is Geraldine, but people call me Jerry!” She started. Blair took her offered hand hesitantly, not sure to make of why this woman had approached them.

“Hello! I’m Blair and this is my niece Alondra. What can I do for you?” She asked after the introduction.

“I’m your new neighbor. I moved in a few days ago. I saw you come out of the road leading up to your ranch. I went for a hike the first day to get to know my place. I watched the young lady and I guess her dad racing their bikes. You are good girl!” She looked to Alondra and smiled. Alondra blushed and smiled at her.

“Oh yeah, I heard someone had brought the Henderson place. I’m sorry I hadn’t gotten around to welcoming you. So much going on over at our place. Hey, come and join us!” Blair invited.

“Don’t mind if I do.” She went over to her table and began to gather up her setting. Alondra went over to help her. Blair was surprise to see Alondra take to this woman so easily. Usually she is standoffish.

Chapter Five

“Well, guess what?” Kane turn to Taker and hung up the phone, as he walked into the house.

“What?” He asked. Putting his hands on hips knowing this wasn’t going to be good, from the expression on his brother’s face.

“The girls are at this very moment, sitting in a restaurant as we speak. And you know what that means?” Kane informed his brother. Taker rubbed his hand over his face. And blew out a long breath.

“Not good!” He said, shaking his head and started towards the kitchen. No use putting off the inevitable. Kane followed.

Taker was just opening the refrigerator, when Kane came in. He stood staring in it blankly. So many different Tupperware filled with food. It was hard to make out what was what. Kane came up behind him and stared in too. The two were too busy trying to plan what they were going to eat, to notice they had company.

“Gentlemen!” Deidra called to them. They both looked up simultaneously.

“I was coming in to let you know we were heading out. But I see you two are in need of an helping hand. I’m sending my men on. Then I’ll solve your problem.” She took control of the situation. Taker and Kane stood staring at each other after she left.

“I don’t know Taker.” Kane finally said.

“Yeah, I know what you mean. Blair and her kitchen!” Taker said. By that time Deidra had come back in and pushed them out of the kitchen.

They were just hoping Blair didn’t get back to see another woman besides Alondra, moving around in her domain. Maybe they could make is seem like they did it and invited her to stay. They just sat and hoped whatever she was going to do would be quick.

It didn’t take her long to whip up something. The smell emitting from the kitchen, made their stomach jump for joy. They soon forgot the dilemma. She put together some leftovers and warmed them up. Added a few side things and prepared the table. The men watched her move around the place like she belong.

She set the table and called them to eat. Everything looked and smelt good. They all sat down at the table and began their meal. Laughing and talking about everything from the WWE and how she came into doing what she‘s doing. They were just finishing up when Blair and Alondra walked in. They weren’t alone.

“Hey Guys. Wow! It smells good in here. What ya doing?” Blair asked coming into the dining every hearing the laughter flowing from it. All three pairs of eyes locked in on her.

She looked suspiciously at the table and how everything was set. She knew the guys didn’t do this. Her eyes came to rest on Deidra. That’s when she realized she was there alone and her crew were gone. Kane jumped out of his seat and took Blair’s shoulder, walking her into the kitchen to explain things.

The voices were subtle at first then they grew louder. Taker shifted in his seat. Blair eyes fell on her half eaten food. She didn’t want to look at Taker at this moment. She knew he was embarrass. Just then they heard a noise at the entrance of the dining area. They looked up to see Alondra standing there with someone else. Taker looked at his daughter who glared at Blair then rushed off to the kitchen.

The woman shifted on one foot then the other, a little uncomfortable with what was going on. Taker looked at the new comer and rose from his seat. He came to tower over her.

“Hello! I’m Taker.” He extended his hand to the woman, who in turn rested her hand in his, watching it engulfed by his own.

“I’m Geraldine. But everyone calls me Jerry. I met your sister-in-law and daughter in town. I’m you’re neighbor. It’s sees like a bad time to come visiting.” She let out a light chuckle. Taker nodded and smiled at her. He couldn’t notice that there was something familiar about her. He just couldn’t put his finger on it yet. At that time Blair came up to the two.

“And I’m Deidra!” She said and offer her hand. Jerry took it and thought she felt Deidra put a little pressure in the squeeze.

“Nice to meet you both.” She drew her hand back and put it in her pocket. Suddenly the noise from the kitchen stopped. All three watched as the door swung open and Blair stormed out and ran upstairs, with Alondra close behind her. Kane slowly came next, running his hand through his hair. He looked up to apologize to Deidra when he stopped in his tracks. His eyes fixed on the woman standing with Taker and Deidra.

“Hello!” His voice a little shaky. Taker eyes rose, he couldn’t make out what was his brother’s problem.

“Hello Sir! I’m Geraldine, but you can call me Jerry. I moved into the Henderson’s place.” She told him. Kane walked up to the three and couldn’t take his eyes off her. Alondra came back down the stairs.

“Uncle Kane! I think you need to go see about Auntie Blair.” She said sadly, then cast an evil eye towards Deidra.

“Yeah! I don’t know what’s with her lately. She been acting really strange.” He said as he started up the stairs.

“How would you know? You mean strange for Blair or strange for everyone else?” Taker injected trying to lighten up the atmosphere.

“Ha ha, Big Bro’.” Kane said and went on to see about his wife. Everyone else stood around uncomfortably.

“I guess it would be a good time for me to leave.” Jerry told them.

“Yeah, I guess I should go to. After I clean up things.” Deidra added.

“No! You’ve done enough, thank you!” Alondra snapped at Deidra.

“Wait just one minute young lady. You apologize for being rude!” Taker stepped to his daughter. She stood defiant, but knew how far to go. She pouted and looked down at the floor.

“It’s okay Taker! Everyone is a little edgy today.” She tried to intervene.

“I don’t need for you to help me out.” Alondra glared at her.

“ALONDRA!” Taker’s voice boomed, making the tow ladies jumped. But Alondra had been down this road many times. She looked to the far wall.

“Sorry!” She pushed out. Then walked out on the porch. By now Kane and Blair were coming from up stairs.

“I owe you an apologize for my actions. I don’t usually act out like that. Must be that time of month. Which reminds me.” She stopped abruptly and went into deep thought.

“It’s okay Blair! I understand. Well, it’s been a long day and I have to be back here in the morning. I better go. May I use your phone to call a taxi?” She asked Taker. He looked at her strangely.

“What are you talking about. With all these running cars about, you don’t dare call a taxi. I’ll take you into town.” Taker told her. She smiled.

“Thank you very much!” She told him.

“Well while you’re taking her, you can drop Jerry at her place. It’s seems her car went out on her. That’s why she came home with us. We wanted you two to meet the new neighbor.” Alondra walked back in. Taker looked over to Jerry.

“What seems to be wrong with your car?” He asked concerned.

“I don’t know, I had it tolled to the garage. Hopefully they’ll be able to tell me tomorrow.” She shrugged her shoulder.

“Well, if they don’t let you know by afternoon tomorrow, give me a call. I’ll get them crackling.” Taker told her.

“Thanks!” She smiled a beautiful smile. Something tugged at Taker’s heart. It was something about her.

“Well, shall we go!” Deidra broke the connection. Taker turned from Jerry and acknowledged Deidra.

“Sure!” He said and started towards the door. Alondra followed the three. Kane watched as they disappeared. He went to stand in the doorway, watching how Alondra had so much to say to this woman.

“Alondra really has taken to the new neighbor in such a short time.” Kane statinghis observation.

“What?” Blair asked, still in her own little world. She had come to realize something.

“I said Alondra has taken to the new neighbor rather quick. What is wrong with you?
All of a sudden you’re miss emotions.” Kane turned from the door as the SUV sped off.

“I think I’m going in town to se Dr. Simmons tomorrow.” She told him. Kane became concerned and walked over to her.

“What is it baby!” He asked, resting his hands on her shoulders. She looked up into his hazel eyes, seeing the fear.

“My dear Kane! Don’t worry. It’s probably nothing serious. I just may need some hormones or something.” She told him. It didn’t ease his feeling much.

“I’m going with you!” He was very stern. She went to protest, but knew it would be in vain. He pulled her to him and held her tight. He couldn’t think of losing her.

Chapter Six

Taker drove down the road headed towards town. Accompany by Deidra, who sat in the front passenger side. Alondra sat behind her father and Jerry was seated behind Deidra. Alondra and Jerry converse quietly in the back, while Deidra sat silently staring at the road ahead.

Taker came up to the road leading to Jerry’s place and started to pull in to it. Alondra seeing what he was doing, scooted up in her seat and place a gentle hand on his shoulder.

“Dad, wait! Since you’re going into town anyway, why don’t you go check on Jerry’s car. I know the garage should be still open.” He stopped the car and paused momentarily, thinking.

“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. You don’t mind do you Jerry?” He turned to look at her.

“No, not at all!” She was grateful for the help. She knows how men try to take advantage of women if no man is around. Deidra slightly tensed in her seat. She turned and looked out the window. Shielding her disappointment. Taker started down the road, as Alondra and Jerry began to chatter amongst themselves.

They made it to the hotel Diedra was staying. She thought about asking to tag along, but thought better. She will be with him tomorrow. And for sure there will not be a Alondra or Jerry to stand in her way. She bid them goodbye and watched as they drove away.

She turned and quickly made her way to her room. Once inside, she threw her bag across the room. She stood there with clenched fists. She was very angry at the events of the day. It hadn’t gone as planned. Jerry’s arrival was an unexpected turn about.

She slowly walked over to the bed and grabbed a pillow, putting it to her face. Let out a loud and long scream. She then tossed the pillow back on the bed and went into the bathroom. Turning on the cold water, doused her face with a hand full. Then she stared a long time at her reflection, trying to regain control of her emotions.

“There is nothing to worry about. Just a little obstacle that will be dealt with if necessary.” She turned away from the mirror and went to take a long hot bath. She needed to relax for tomorrow.

“Okay Jack! What’s wrong with the Lady’s car?” Taker walked around looking at the automobile. It was a pinto station wagon. An older model.

“Take, this car is on it’s last run. She should be looking at getting a new one. Or good use one. Whatever her choice.” He told him. Jerry was distraught. She has had this car from the time is came off the floor. It was her first new car.

“What? Can’t you do something to get it running again?” She walked up to Jack, pleading. Taker couldn’t take his eyes off her. Something about how she looked and the way she talked. It just seemed so damn familiar. Yet he knew he didn’t know her.

“I’m sorry Lady. I can! But not in clear conscience. You’ll only wind up stranded on some road somewhere. And that’s not what I’m all about.” He said this and looked from her to Taker, who stood listening with his arms across his chest. She looked over to Taker with her light brown eyes, filling with tears.

“This was the very first car that I bought for myself. Right off the floor.” She went over to her car and rubbed it like a dying pet she has to put down. Taker walked over to her and caught her arm gently.

“I’m sorry Jerry! I know this is hard. But he’s right. We don’t want anything to happen to you while trying to get this car fix. Only to get stuck somewhere.” He try to reason with her. She looked up in his eyes and knew he was right. She nodded.

“Okay! Junk it!” She turned and rushed from the garage, crying. Alondra followed her. Taker shook Jacks hand and thanked him for being honest. He turned and walked towards his SUV to join the ladies.

The ride out of town was very somber. Jerry sat in front in the passenger side not saying a word. Alondra sat back behind her father, not pressing Jerry to talk. This time when Taker turned up into the road leading to Jerry’s place, there was no protest.

He took the winding dirt road up into a clearing, revealing the one story ranch style house. Jerry open the door and had jumped out before Taker could unbuckle his seat beat. After removing them, he got out of the SUV and followed her to her house. She had made it to the last step and turned to look down at him, as he came up to the porch.

“Thank you so much for your help. I want you to know how much I appreciate it. I feel a little foolish for acting the way I did back there. I can only imagine what you think of me. First impressions and all.” She let out a small chuckle and looked down at her fingers.

“Not at all. I know how it feels to have to give up important things that others may think stupid. Your first car is always the hardest to let go. I know.” He smiled up to her. His eyes soften when she looked in them. The moonlight played just right. Her eyes almost seemed beige in color. And for that moment in time, his heart seem to go back in time to a place long ago.

“I better let you go. I don’t won’t to keep you. I understand you have a very long day ahead. Thank you once again for everything.” Jerry interrupted the moment. She couldn’t allow herself to get attach. Not at this time.

“Yeah, I almost forgot. But if you need a ride any place until you find another car. Don’t hesitate to call me. You know what? We should be wrapped up with this by Saturday. How bout I take you to a nice car place I know?” He offered. Jerry looked stunned. She didn’t quite know how to take this.

“I don’t know. I don’t want to make a nuisance of myself.” Jerry started to back up towards her front door.

“I’m not going to take no for answer. Even if I have to cancel these shoots. Then my boss will be very pissed. And you don’t want to see that. Now do you?” He leaned into the porch, one foot propped up on the lower step. He was like a school boy, forming a crush on a new girl.

“Alright! Since you put it that way. I certainly don’t want to see you get in hot water with your boss. Especially since you have gone out of your way to be neighborly.” She slowly walked back to the edge of the porch to stared down upon Taker. She leaned in, wrapping an arm around one of the post, that made the archway on the porch. Once again their eyes met and held each other.

“Good! It’s a date!” He said softly. Not wanting to leave her, but knew it best. He smiled, turned and walked away. His heart was full. He glanced up at the moon and for the first time in years, he walked with a little pep in his step. Jerry watched him walk away and get into the SUV. He gave her one last lingering gaze. Then turning on the vehicle drove away.

Alondra had jumped into the front seat passenger side. She watched the two interact. She was happy. Maybe! Just maybe, someone worthy of her father’s love.

“You like her don’t you?” She asked when they got out of sight of Jerry.” Taker cleared his throat, coming back to reality.

“Yeah, why wouldn’t I like her? She a nice lady.” Taker tried to sound nonchalant. Alondra stared at him, smiling. His eyes darted back and forth from looking at her smiling at him and the road ahead.

“Look you! Don’t go getting any crazy ideas or making more of this than it is.” He warned.

“Sure! I’m not going to do a thing. I promise!” She said and sat back in her seat. She looked out the window smiling. Yeah, her father was definitely liking Jerry.

Chapter Seven

Jerry watched as they disappeared around the bend. She stood there looking up into the moon. She hadn’t counted on this. Taker was a very good looking man. And there was something about him and the way he looked at her that made her heart skip.

“Wow! I can’t believe this. Did what happened really just happened?” She whispered to herself. She leaned against the post, wrapping her arms around her. It had been a long time since feelings as this had formed in her. Not since her husband Stan. God Rest His Soul! She thought.

He was nearly twenty years her senior. He had died a horrible death. Something about radio falling in the tub or something. But then they weren’t together, so it wasn’t quite clear to her.

The phone began to ring. She turned towards the door and fumbled for her keys, to unlock the door. Once the door was opened, she ran in just to catch the last ring.

“Hello!” She called into the phone. Then her face went stern.

“What is it?” She asked without emotions. She listened to the person on the other end.

“Look! I just moved in a few days ago. And I must say I am doing well.” She said, walking in the living room and taking a seat.

“Well I’m glad you approve. Anyways. I met my new neighbors. Nice bunch of people.” She said, as her mind went to one in particular.

“I don’t need anything from you. I’m doing just fine on my own. So please, don’t come here. You’ll only mess everything up.” She stood to her feet. She allowed the other person to finish what they had to say, before hanging up.

“Great! That’s all I need is for them to come interfering.” She walked over and set the phone down, then ran her hands through her hair. Walked over to the sofa and flopped down on it. She rested her head on a pillow and before she knew it. She had drifted off to sleep.

Taker stood staring out the window, with the lights off. The moon seemed so enchanting tonight for some reason. He remembered a night like this. The night he met his wife Claire.

He had went to a fair with Kane and Blair. He wasn’t paying much attention to where he was going. Claire and him accidentally bumped into each other. Her dark brown eyes, penetrated his heart. Her smile and laughter filled him up. Her short dark hair bounced, as she walked. He paused, as the memories replayed in his mind.

But just as he thought about Claire, Jerry’s face filled his mind. Her smile and laughter. Those eyes that could look right through you. Her shoulder length auburn hair, that bounced when she walked. And the moonlight high lighted it.

“No! This is not happening. I just met the woman today. And already I’m falling for her. What the hell is wrong with you man?” He spun around away from the window and walked over to his bed. He sat down and picked up the picture on his nightstand. One that has been there it seems like forever.

Claire!

“I fell in love with her right then and there.” He gently put the picture back in its place. A guilt overtook him. He mustn’t betray the only woman who had captured his heart. The one and only one for him. He laid back on the bed, staring up into the ceiling. His eyes closed and succumbing to the dark.

The next morning came quick. Blair was up early preparing breakfast for her household and the magazine crew that would be arriving soon. No sooner than she had put on the coffee, the front doorbell rung.

“Man, they don’t waste anytime.!” She said looking up and heading for the living room. She opened the door as the men came piling in. Making comments on how good everything smelt. She kidded with them and led them into the wash room to clean up, before they ate and started their day.

Taker was just descending the stairs, when Deidra walked through the front door. Se was busy looking at a camera, to notice him staring at her. She fumbled around with it for a while longer, then looked through it to see if it was working right. She panned in around the room and fell on Taker standing on the bottom step. Just snatched the camera from her face and jumped back with a start.

“Taker!” She said, her hand covering her heart. As she tried to catch her breath. He smiled and stepped down on the floor, still looking at her regaining her composure.

“You really get into your work don’t you?” He said. She set the camera back in her pack then looked over to him.

“Yeah! It’s all I have right now.” She looked at him then away. He stared for a moment.

“I can’t believe a beautiful woman like you haven’t or don’t have someone, somewhere. She looked at him and did a funny twist with her mouth. Then she walked passed him towards the living room.

“You’ll be surprise!” She said passing him. He turned and followed her. He wanted to pursue this further. She had caught his interest now.

“Then tell me!” He said, sitting on the arm of the sofa, while she took a seat on a chair by the window.

“Look Taker! It makes me flatter to think you may have some interest in my private life. But its not about me or what is or isn’t going on in my private life. It’s about you and Kane. And what you will like to reveal in the upcoming magazine.” She said, without blinking an eye. Taker stood to his feet and ran his hand over his head to his neck, giving it a light rub.

“Well I guess you straighten me out. Seems like you didn’t get much sleep last night or got up on the wrong side of the bed. But in any case. I have instructed you on what will and what won’t be mention in this magazine, Vince wants us Superstars in. So you have every right to set boundaries. I will not cross them again.” He said and walked out of the room heading for the dining area.

Deidra stood to her feet. She clenched her fist angrily. What did she just do? She wanted to scream hard and loud, but knew it wouldn’t be wise to reveal that temper she possessed. She’ll have to think of something else to smooth things over. She just needed to breathe and calm down. She did.

“I use to be in a psychology class.” Alondra walked into the room on Deidra. She spun around to face the young woman.

“The breathing method was often used to calm down people on anger management.” She continued. Deidra glared at her silently.

“I see you know something of psychology or anger management. I think everyone should. You never know when it will come in handy!” Alondra turned and walked out of the room and through the front door. Deidra stared at her silently, her heart rate beginning to increase as she breathed hard. Obstacles! Why must there always be obstacles?

“Deidra! Are you okay?” Blair asked. Deidra head snapped in her direction. She pushed her hair back from her face.

“If I may use your restroom, I’ll be fine!” She told her. Blair pointed in its direction, watching the woman walk into it. Blair stood there thinking for sometime. She didn’t like the expression on the woman’s face. It was almost deranged.

Chapter Eight

Blair was standing on he edge of the living room, thinking. She had just witness something that she couldn’t get out of he mind. Deidra, standing in her living room going through some emotional breakdown or near to it. She was so deep in thought, she never heard Kane coming down the stairs behind her. Or his silent approach.

“What time will you be leaving?” Kane said, wrapping his arms around her waist. She jumped, startled. Her mind was on Deidra and this sinking feeling about her that lingered.

“Kane!” She turned and began hitting him, lightly with her dish towel in hand. He threw his arms up to shielding the blows, laughing.

“Okay, okay!” he laughed. She stopped and shook her head at him. Then got serious.

“I’m leaving as soon as breakfast is over. Are sure you want to miss the session today?” She asked. He walked over to her and rested his hands on either side of her waist.

“You and your well-being are what’s important to me. I’m going with you. I want to be there when the doctor tells you what is or not wrong with you.” He said, pulling her to him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head on his abdomen.

“You two need to get a room.” Taker said, coming in from the dining area. They both turned to look at him.

“See if you had some like this, you wouldn’t be telling us to get a room. You’d been in one.” Kane struck back. Blair pushed off on him and shook her head at them both. Then she went to say something to Taker, but stopped as Deidra entered the room form the bathroom.

“You feeling better Deidra?” Blair asked, staring at her. Deidra stopped in front of them, next to Taker.

“You’re not feeling well Deidra? Maybe we should postponed the session for today.” Taker looked down at her, thinking maybe that’s why she seemed off this morning. Her head immediately snapped up at him.

“No! NO!” She said in a slightly emotional loud voice. The three stared at her strange reaction. Blair felt an alarm go up in her head. Something was definitely mentally wrong with this chick. She thought to herself. Which bares watching while she was around her family.

“Settle down, Deidra! One day won’t hurt. You need to take care of yourself.” Taker grabbed her shoulders. Deidra looked up into his eyes, then did something unexpected. She threw herself into his body, wrapping her arms about his waist and began to cry. Taker looked at Kane and Blair awkwardly. Kane shrugged his shoulders. Blair’s eyes narrowed.

“I can’t mess up! This is my last chance to redeem myself.” She began. Taker, Kane and Blair looked at each other. Taker pulled her away from him and held her in his sight.

“What do you mean, redeem yourself?” Taker asked as a curious Kane and Blair watched on. Deidra tried to stifle the tears. She moved from Taker’s grasp and walked further into the living room, followed by the three.

“My father is very rich! He is a friend of Vince. That’s how I got this job. If I don’t make good on this job, my father will disown me and I’ll be out on the streets.” She explained, through sobs. Blair felt for her. Kane looked on, as his brother went to sit next to her.

“Don’t worry Hon. You’re going to do great. Your father may be a friend of Vince, he don’t work that way. He only hires the best. He had to have seen some of your work to hire you.” Taker told her. She looked up at him through wet eyes and nodded, smiling.

“Yeah, he told me I was a natural. Until I took up photography, I had no direction. Now I do! My father didn’t like it. That’s why he got me the job. To fail!” She told them. Blair felt at that time she knew why the woman was so emotional. So much pressure put on her.

“Okay, enough of this. Come with me Deidra. Let’s get you cleaned up.” Blair beckon for her to follow. She rose form the sofa and followed Blair upstairs.

“Always these idiots with money driving their kids crazy.” Taker growled. Kane nodded.

“You know what? Maybe the session should be called off for the day. She’s not in any shape to do anything today. And I’m not going to be here anyway. Blair’s not feeling well and I’m going with her to the doctors.” Kane explained to Taker, who immediately rushed over to his brother.

“Doctor? What’s wrong with her? Is it serious?” Taker grew excited. Blair was the closest thing to a sister.

“Hey Bro’! It’s okay! I think it’s anything serious.” He tried to ease Takers feelings.

“But you don’t know, do you?” Taker injected. Kane looked over towards his brother. Taker could see he was worried.

“I’m going to! I’ll go crazy here thinking of what is going on in that doctor’s office.” Taker began to pace back and forth.

“No you’re not. I talked Deidra to calling today’s work off. I think you may want to show her around the place to get her and yourself some down time. Don’t you think that’s a good idea Kane?” She looked over to her husband, hinting that she didn’t need him there. He got the clue.

“Oh yeah! I think that would be a better idea, Taker!” Kane nodded.

“That’s okay, I and the crew will go back in time. I’ll just lay down in my room.” Diedra interrupted. Taker looked over at her and envision her locked up in the room on a beautiful day like this.

“I agree with them. It’s to pretty of a day to be stuck up in some hotel. Believe me I know. And maybe you can take some pictures under a more relax situation?’ Taker suggested. Deidra thought about it for a moment.

“Okay! You convinced me.” She conceded. Just then her crew was walking in from breakfast. She turned to them.

“Boys, we’re going to call it a day. Let’s take today off and pick up tomorrow.” She told them. She didn’t get any complaints from them. She walked out with them explaining.

Deidra watched as the rounded the bend, disappearing. Just at the same time Alondra was driving up with Jerry next to her. She watched as the men passed by waving goodbye. She didn’t see Deidra with them. She tried to compose herself for Jerry’s sake. She had this feeling this wasn’t going to go as planned.

Chapter Nine

Deidra walked back towards the house. Alondra pulled the SUV into the garage, getting a glimpse of Deidra. Kane and Blair were heading for the kitchen, as she made her way into the house.

Taker was staring out the window from the living room. She stood staring silently, taking in the view. She hadn’t quite notice how red his hair was and had deep waves in it. She could tell it was a nice length even though he wore it in a ponytail and covered by his bandana.

“You’re worried about her aren’t you?” She asked, as she began to walk into the room. He turned his head to her for a moment then back to the window. She could see his body rise and fall, from deep breathing.

“She’s like a sister I never had. I owe her a lot. She’s looked after my daughter like she was her own. I’ll always love her for that.” He said.

“What?” Alondra came into the room. Taker turned to her, staring silently.

“What are you talking about? What’s going on? Where’s Auntie Blair?” She began to look around. Taker started towards her, but she back away and began to call for her Aunt. Kane and Blair came running out of the kitchen. Alondra ran into Blair’s arms.

“What is going on? What is the matter child?” She rubbed her head, as she held onto her for dear life.

“What is going on Auntie? Dad was talking like something had happened to you.” She pulled her head from her and stared into her eyes. Blair closed her eyes, trying to figure out what to say to calm her down.

“Come with me. We need to talk.” Blair took her hand and led her upstairs. Taker followed tem with his eyes, only to have them fall on another person standing in the room.

His heart jumped in his chest. As much as he had tried to deny what he was feeling. His heart told him differently. Their eyes locked, caressing each other. He felt this warm feeling blooming within. This was real, what was filling his heart. Her eyes glistened, taking in the flow from him. She felt as if her knees would buckle under her, the current was so strong. She turned away, not able to stand what he was doing to her.

Deidra watched it all unfold before her. He hadn’t looked at her in that manner one time. Though he had looked at her. But not that strong. Obstacles. Always obstacles. Guess I’ll have to take it up a notch, she thought.

“Taker! Ready to take me for that tour of the ranch?” She asked, interrupting this little romantic fest. He looked from Jerry to her. Barely able to breathe. Kane stood back silently, observing everything. He titled his head, wondering if his brother had a clue about Jerry?

“Oh yes! Sure let’s go! Ummm! Jerry, would you like to join us?” He asked awkwardly, not knowing exactly what to do in this situation. Deidra snapped her eyes at Jerry glaring and hoping she wouldn’t. Jerry didn’t want to impose.

“No! You go on with your plans. Alondra had offered to take me to check out some cars. I really need to get one. Can’t keep depending on other folks, however nice they are.” She said, not looking up at him. But that didn’t stop Taker from rushing pass Deidra up to her.

“Wait! I thought we had made it a date for Saturday?” He asked, staring down at her. She glanced up at him. Boy was he huge, she thought. She slightly backed away giving some distance between them.

“Yeah, I know. But hey, you have so many things going on. I don’t want to impose anymore than I have to.” She tried to explain. Taker was clearly getting annoyed.

Kane leaned against the wall, watching this little scene play out. He hadn’t seen his brother, so involved with a woman so quickly, since Claire. Again, he wondered had his brother noticed.

Diedra was puffing so hard, if she had been a dragon they all would have been burnt alive. Taker took Jerry’s arm in his hand gently and escorted her out the door. Deidra flopped down on the sofa, angry. Kane looked at her and could see something. She had some strong feelings for his brother. He laughed to himself.

“I wouldn’t let that bother me if I were you. Taker always feels like he has to be the protector. Especially with women in distress.” Kane walked over and sat down across from her. She looked at him and slightly smiled. She realized she had been too emotional today. Now it was time to do whatever was necessary.

“I’m not! Just it would be good to see the ranch and take pictures too. That way the whole day won’t be a bust. You know what I mean. And that, it’s okay.” She lied. Kane nodded. Then his eyes caught Alondra and Blair making their way down stairs. Everything seemed better.

He rose to his feet and went to join them. Deidra stood to see if they had straighten everything out. But the way Alondra glared at her, told her to keep her mouth shut. She walked passed them and out on the porch. Taker and Jerry were nowhere to be found.

“I know we just met and all. But I really want to get to know you better. Hell, I came home and tied to push you out of my head. But it ain’t happening lady. Not by a long shot.” He was walking back and forth explaining things to Jerry. She was sitting on a black of hay, watching him with adoring eyes.

“Just let me do this thing today and get the next day out of the way. I want to be there when you get your next car. Will you do that for me?” He asked, pleadingly. He had found her and was not going to let her go. He couldn’t. She thought then smiled up to him.

“Okay! I guess two days of being chauffeured around won’t make that much difference. Not that I have anywhere to go.” She said. He smiled.

“Good! I guess I better let you and Alondra be on your way. And get back to Deidra.” He said reluctantly. They exited the barn. They didn’t much noticed the pair of eyes watching them.

“I guess I’ll have to play dirty. Real dirty if I’m going to get what I want.” Deidra said, watching them cross the yard and go into the house.

She snuck into the garage and lifted up the hood of the SUV, pulling on a cable until it dislodged from its connection. She smiled triumphantly. Closed the hood down and peering out the garage, saw that the coast was clear. She ran quickly to her jeep and got in it. She saw Taker coming out of the house. She acted as if she was trying to find something. He slowly made his way over to her.

“Hey! I wondered where you had gone off to.” He said. She smiled at him.

“I was making sure I had enough film to get some good shots. This is a job I want to go prefect. And so far, it seems like it is.” She told him. She beckoned for him to get in. He walked over to the passenger side and slid in. She turned on the vehicle and pulled away, looking over to Alondra and Jerry coming out and heading for the garage.

Chapter Ten

Alondra got a glimpse of her Father and Deidra disappear from sight. Jerry couldn’t help notice. She could see the stern look on her face and wanted to get her to lighten up. What will be will be. Nothing and no one can change that.

“Why don’t you like her?” Jerry asked, as they made their way into the garage. Alondra was silent. She walked over to her Harley and straddled it. She looked at Jerry. Eyes dark with anger.

“She’s no good. And she’s after my father.” She told her. Jerry let out a small chuckle and came to stand next to her. She slid the back of her hand down her face and stared at her in a loving way. Her eyes soft and slowly filling with tears.

“You know. The first time I saw you, I thought. If my baby had lived. My precious little girl. She would have been your age. And I do believe looked just like you.” Jerry revealed. A tear escaped. Alondra felt her eyes swelling.

“You lost a baby? We have so much in common. I lost my Mom. Never got a chance to see her. She died having me.” Alondra sharing. Jerry looked at her surprised.

“My daughter died at childbirth. We do have a lot in common. Except for the Father in the story.” Jerry said, turning to walk away. Alondra dismounted the bike and followed up behind her.

“What do you mean, Jerry? What happened to your husband?” Alondra pried. Jerry took a seat on the ground, back against the wall. Alondra joined her.

“We were in love. It was like love at first sight. But I resisted him. It was a gut feeling I had. Did I listen? No! It cost me my baby!” Jerry wiped the tears that were now flowing. Alondra laid her arm about her shoulder, trying to console her.

“We don’t have to talk about this anymore Jerry. Let’s go do something fun!” Alondra jumped up, grabbing Jerry by the hand. Lifting her to her feet. Jerry looked at Alondra and headed for the SUV. Pausing for a moment, then walked over to the motorcycle. An idea forming in her head.

“Wait!” Jerry called to her. Alondra had halfway enter the car, stopped and looked at Jerry. Who had this devious grin on her face. She looked at Alondra, then down at the bike. Alondra eyes went to her bike, then looked back to Jerry. She slightly shrugged her shoulder.

“I have you ever rode anyone on your bike before?” Jerry asked, walking around the bike and running her hand over the sternum. Alondra stepped out of the SUV and closed the door, going to joined Jerry.

“Yeah! My Dad!” Alondra informed her with a big smile. Could she not only have a friend who has a lot in common. But also has the love for bikes as well.

“Good! Then you wouldn’t have any problem riding me!” She said and jumped on the back of the bike. Alondra stood, not believing what she was seeing. Jerry sat with a big grin on her face.

“Come on! I want to fly!” She threw her head back and outstretched her arms to her side, mimicking a bird soaring. Alondra grabbed two helmets, handed one to Jerry and put the other on, as she jumped on the bike.

“I know a nice place we can relax. It’s just beautiful there this time of the year.” Alondra turned to look at Jerry and snapped her helmet.

“Okay Kiddo! Let’s go!” She yelled to Alondra over the loud motor, roaring. She kicked the stand. Jerry wrapped her arms about her waist, holding on. Alondra revved up the motor and set off out of the garage.

Kane and Blair were just coming out of the house, when they heard the bike going. Blair locked the door while Kane came to stand on the edge of the porch. Then he saw the motorcycle speed out of the garage with the two ladies on it. Blair ran to the edge and watched helplessly as her niece and new neighbor disappear from sight.

“What the hell is she thinking?” Blair turned to look up at Kane, who was still staring in the area they had vanished.

“She’s been doing this since she could walk. Hell she has rode Taker’s big butt on the back. Surely she can balanced a small lady like Jerry!” Kane looked down at his wife. She turned from him and stared away, angry.

“I’m not talking about Alondra. She’s a child. I’m talking about Jerry! She’s my age. She should know better.” She snapped. He looked at her for a moment, then figured it out. He let out a laugh.

“Do I sense a touch of jealousy here?” Kane said to her. Blair snapped her head up to him and glared.

“Jealous? What do I have to be jealous of?” She asked. He titled his head and laid a gentle hand on her shoulder.

“How close those two have come in such a short time. Alondra don’t take to kindly to many people and definitely not so fast. So it’s like someone else in her life except you.” He explained his theory. Blair silently walked away, heading for the garage.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.” She yelled over her shoulder. Kane’s long strides caught up with her quickly.

“Don’t I?” He grabbed her arm and spun her around to face him. Bending his knees slightly, to come eye to eye with her. She looked into this searching eyes and turned her head from him. She knew there was no hiding it.

“Alright! You got me. I just don’t get it Kane! The last coupe of days two women have come into our lives. One she hates and the other she embraces. I don’t understand. She doesn’t know either.” Blair began to walk around, arms crossed.

“It may be the same reason my brother took to her instantly!” Kane looked out over the ranch, just as his brother does every evening after night fall. Blair looked at him curiously. Kane looked down at her, then realized something.

“You don’t see it either do you?” He said to her. She stared, then shrugged her shoulder.

“No what? Tell me?” She asked, waiting.

“Think hard baby! Think about Jerry and who do we know would pull a stunt like this?” He watched, as her mind calculated what he had said. Then something came to mind, when she first saw Jerry. Bingo! Her eyes lit up! She looked at her husband in shock!

“Oh My God! I have been so caught up with all the commotion and what was going on with me. I saw it! But pushed it back out of my head. Do you think Taker sees it?” She asked. Kane shook his head.

“I don’t think with his outer eyes. But I think he does with his heart.” He told her. She took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. Kane wrapped his arm around her shoulder and lead her into the garage.

“Since Alondra’s on her bike, let’s take the SUV instead of the Lexus!” Kane said to her. She nodded and went over to the SUV. They both got in the car. He started it up without a problem and slowly pulled out of the garage, heading to town for the Doctor’s appointment.

Chapter Eleven

Taker gave Deidra the grand tour of the huge ranch. She got out at spots and took some shots of Taker. He was very proud of his place. It had become his solitude from the grueling road trips when he had to do wrestling shows.

Deidra was at awe of the place. She would stand for a while, eyes looking at far as she could see. She then would turn and join Taker in her jeep, following his direction where to go next. They came upon a lake, set apart from the rest of the land. It was like a oasis in the desert. Surrounded by green grass and trees for shade.

He pointed out a good place to park, then jumped out and walked over to the lake. He stood momentarily, taking in the view. She followed him, leaving her camera behind, coming up beside him, looking over the lakeside. It was breathtaking, she thought.

Then her mind, calculating as always, figured this would be the best place to set her plan in motion. Taker took a seat on the grass next to the tree. His eyes cast towards the water, watching the ducks, swans and geese swimming peacefully. This was his place of solitude.

“You come here often?” She asked. Coming to sit next to him, never taking her eyes from the beautiful view. Nor did he never take his eyes off the scenery.

“Every chance I get. It’s a very special place for me.” He told her. She looked over to him and could see he was deep into it.

Phantoms! Why must there always be phantoms? Her mind spoke to her.

“I gather this was your spot!” She said, eyes locked on him and his reaction.

“My spot?” He shrugged, not knowing what she meant.

“Yours and hers! Claire!” She said quietly. He looked at her, thinking. Then turned away.

“It’s none of your business whether it was or not. On the record, that is. But off the record. Yeah, it was. We spent a many of days here.” He said to her. She looked over to him, grateful he shared that with her.

“On the record I didn’t quite get that. Off the record I understand.” She replied. He smiled and looked into her clear eyes. Strange he thought. Almost hypnotizing. Suddenly a strange urged came over him. He bend in to her, placing his hand on her neck and pulled her to him. Their lips just touching each other.

“Wait! Are you sure?” She said just above a whisper. Knowing that would steer him on the more. He answered her, by covering her mouth with his own. She relaxed into him, encouraging him the more. He pulled her over into his lap, kissing her deeply.

His tongue explored every inch her mouth. She moaned in pleasured. Never experiencing such passion from a man. She griped a handful of hair in her hand. He held with one arm, releasing years of bent up need for someone to love in his life.

“DAD!” The voice hit them like an explosion. He released Deidra and stared up into two pair of shocked eyes. Deidra sat up in his lap, then scurried out of it. He moved to his feet. Looking from Alondra, then to Jerry. For some reason, he felt as if he had been a man caught cheating on his family.

“Alondra! Jerry! What are you two doing here? I thought you were in town.!” He tried to cover what just happened. Deidra had stood up and backed away from the threesome, next to the tree.

“Don’t try to push away what you were doing, Dad! I can’t believe you! You brought her here? To the place Mom and you made your special place!” She yelled. Deidra looked around, wondering how they had got there. Thinking this would be a good place for them to get stranded.

“It’s not what you think! We.......!” He pleaded not sure what just happened. He looked over to Jerry for help. She raised her hands up in the air and walked over to the tree, eyeing Deidra!

“I don’t want to hear it! Jerry is right. Whatever will be will be. I’ll be glad when I’m gone from your sight!” She turned away from him, not wanting them to see her crying.

“Wait! Why are you up here anyway? And did you bring someone to a place that is suppose to be special to your mom and me? He asked, looking over to Jerry, then back at his daughter.

“I always come here whenever I need to figure out some things. I may not know my mother. But for nine months I was a part of her. That’s a connection not even death can break. And I wanted to share this spot with Jerry, because today we both bonded in a special way. I thought it would be nice for her to be here! So what was your reason for bringing HER here?” She turned on him. He stared at his daughter, realizing how much she missed her Mother.

“Okay you two. Time out now!” Jerry stepped in before this got too out of hand. Taker heard the voice coming from behind him and thought for a split second, Claire had come back.

He spun around on his heels in Jerry’s direction, to see if it was true. Only to stare into her beautiful light brown eyes. They stood, gazing into each other eyes for a moment in time. She then smiled and walked pass him to Alondra.

“Okay! You’re busy, that we can clearly see. And she’s upset! That I can clearly understand. With your permission, Sir! I would like to take her away and have her stay at my place for the night. Maybe some away time may do her some good.” Jerry suggested.

Sir! That’s what his Claire would call him whenever she was dead serious. That was always the clue he had gone to far.

“Okay! You’re right! Baby, when this is over. Just you and me before you leave for college in the fall. Figure out where you want to go. It’s my gift to you. Just for being you.” He walked up to her and extended his arms to her. She looked away. Jerry gave her a gentle nudge. She turned and looked at him, realizing she was hurting him. That’s not something she ever wanted to do.

She ran into his arms and held him close. She loved him so much. Jerry smiled, seeing them happy. That’s when she caught the fierce anger in Deidra’s eyes. Jerry’s eyes narrowed, registering Deidra’s expression. That’s when she knew. She had to protect Alondra and Taker, at all cost. Deidra straighten up her face, before she was observed. Never knowing how quickly Jerry had spotted her.

“So how did you two get up here? Without us hearing you?” Deidra asked, out of curiosity. Alondra did the pleasure.

“Dad, guess what!” She taunted him. He held her away from him, looking into cheerful eyes.

“What Alondra? Am I going to like this or not?” He asked, hating when she starts with guess what.

“You’re going to love it! I rode my bike up and guess who was on it with me!” She began to laugh. He stared at her, then slowly turned his head towards Jerry in disbelief. Alondra laughed and pointed at Jerry. Who was looking to the sky, as if searching for something. Then unable to resist, they came to rest on his surprised green orbs.

“Oh really!” He said, looking her up and down.

“You are full of surprises, Dear Jerry! Maybe I’m going to have to explore what other surprises you have up your sleeves.” He continued. She began to clown, by looking up each sleeve and shaking her head, as a gesture that nothing was there.

“Come on Jerry! I need to stop and get some things at the house. See you tomorrow Dad!” She said, giving him a soft peck on the cheek and walking away.

Jerry said goodbye to them both and awkwardly left the two alone. Taker followed them and saw where they had been sitting at the little picnic area he had created years ago. He watched as the two mounted the bike and drove away.

Deidra hit her fist into the tree, unawares to Taker. Who was still watching the two ladies head away. She was so close, until that brat and busy body showed up. It’s okay! At least you know he has feeling for you. She said to herself. Taker turned away and came back to where she was standing alone. He smiled.

“Sorry about everything.” He said to her. She hid a bruise and now swelling hand behind her. Not wanting him to see it.

“It’s okay! Who knows what would have happened if they hadn’t showed up! Do you mind driving back. I‘m feeling a little exhausted. It‘s been a long day.” She tried to make it out as a good thing. He nodded, then they headed down the hill to the jeep and his house.

Chapter Twelve

Kane sat in a chair while Blair began putting he clothes on. They were instructed to meet the Doctor in his office when she was finished. Kane stood as she hooked up the last button on her blouse.

They stared at each other and headed down the hallway. The Doctor was sitting behind his desk, looking over her chart. His eyes peered over the wire brim glasses as they entered.

“Come in, come in! Mr. and Mrs. Jakens!” He beckoned to them. They sat in the two chairs in front of his desk, while he finished looking at the chart.

“Well you two. I’m waiting for the results of one final test, then I’ll be able to tell you what is going on.” He sat back in his chair, eyes darting from Kane to Blair.

“Look Doc! Patients is not my highest virtue. So if you don’t mind, please tell us what you think is wrong with my Wife!” Kane making an attempt to hide his anxiety. Just in the nurse walked in with a sheet of paper, handing it to the doctor.

He sat forward after taking the paper, glancing over it quickly. He smiled and looked up at the two. Blair felt a relief. Kane squeezed her hand from the Doctor’s expression.

“Well everything checked out just fine!” He told them. Kane finally breathe, as Blair place her hand over her heart.

“You are definitely pregnant, Blair!” He said. They both froze in their chairs.

Alondra finished, packing her over the night things and joined Jerry in the living room. She rose from the chair, seeing Alondra come through the door. It was going to be fun having Alondra with her. She hated being alone in the big house. It’s the price you pay for your independence.

“Want to go to town and get something to eat firsts?” Alondra asked as they headed out to the bike.

“No, I‘m cooking! It would be good to finally have someone to cook for.” She said. Alondra looked at her curiously. Jerry caught the looked.

“What? You didn’t think I could cook?” She laughed. Alondra smiled, embarrassed that Jerry had read her so well.

“Well, no! You seem too hippy. You know what I mean?” She explained.

“Hey! Even us hippy gals know how to do some things.” She replied. They laughed. This is going to be a fun night, Alondra thought. She looked over the house and thought how in the fall, she will be leaving for several months. And not just for a night or two. She turned on the bike and with Jerry holding on, sped away.

Taker and Deidra were just making their way down the road, as the bike tore out of the entrance to the house. Taker looked and shook his head. That girl is just to sure of herself. He hopes she will have the good sense to slow down.

Deidra watched the two who had spoiled her date. If you want to call it that. Maybe she could salvage it, that is if his brother and sister-in-law weren’t back from the Doctor’s. He turned into the yard and headed for the front of the garage.

He looked in the garage, seeing the SUV gone. Figured Kane and Blair had taken it instead of their Lexus. Blair looked bewildered.

Damn! She thought. Another plan gone wild.

“You want to come in and rest up, before you make that trip into town. In fact, I got an even better idea. Let’s throw something together and get something in our stomachs. I know you’re hungry!” He started towards the house. She was surprise after what had happened at the lake. She didn’t know what to say. But then, Kane and Blair may be stranded on the road. And Alondra is with Jerry. No things couldn’t have worked out any better.

“Sure! Why not!” She answered, hooking her arm in his and walked side by side with him into the house.

“What’s wrong with it?” Blair looked over to Kane, as he made one more of numerous attempts to start the SUV.

“Hell, if I know Blair. How often do I drive this thing?” He snapped and gave it one more turn of the key, to see if it would turn over.

“Shit!” He yelled, hitting the steering wheel with both fist. He looked over to Blair, who now seemed as if she would start bawling in a second. They had just received the most shocking news. They’re going to be parents.

“It’s okay baby! I’m going to get you home. You know that!” He turned to her. She looked in his eyes and found comfort.

“I know Honey! It’s just that, our lives as we know it is about to change. With seven words, “You are going to have a baby”, how everything becomes much clearer.” She told him. He nodded.

“Yeah it does. Let me go check and see if I can find out what is wrong.” He told her, popped the hood and got out of the SUV. He walked around to the front and raised the hood up and began to fumble around with something.

“Blair! Scoot over to the driver’s seat and turn it on!” He yelled to her. She struggled over and did what he asked. Nothing.

“DAMNIT!” He said loudly and walked back to the door of the driver side. Blair stared at him stomping towards her and could see he was getting very upset.

“What are we going to do?” She asked timidly. He glanced at her for a second then looked up and down the street until he saw the garage.

“I’m going to see if Pete can come take a look at it. Wait here!” He told her and rushed up the street towards the garage. She watched him distance himself from where they were stranded. She reach over and grabbed her purse. She took out her cell phone and dialed a number.

“Okay! Have him to call me when he returns.” Taker hung up the phone and walked back to the dining area where Deidra. He paused at the door with his hands on hips, then looked back towards the phone. She could see something was wrong but the expression on his face.

“Bad news!” She asked, thinking it had to be Kane and Blair. Knowing what she had done to the car. He began to scratch his head. Then he looked at her, as he came to take his seat at the end of the table to her left.

“That was Blair! Said the SUV went out on them and wouldn’t start! Kane has gone to Pete’s garage to see if he can find out what’s going on. I hope he can, cause I just had that thing service last weekend.” He seemed very disturbed. She slightly stiffen in her seat.

What if they find the loose cable? Which there’ll be no doubt they will. But it doesn’t matter. No one would tie her to it anyways. Relax Deidra. You got this! She told herself.

Chapter Thirteen

Alondra hung up the cell phone. She looked worried. She looked up at Jerry who had just walked in from the kitchen. She had made a kick ass dinner and now the both were stuff.

She wouldn’t allow Alondra to wash the dishes. Said let the dishwasher do it. Besides, she also stated. This was a mini vacation, so she should enjoy it while she could. She listen to it humming in the distance. Jerry flopped down on the sofa, stretching out. She moved onto her side and caught the look on Alondra’s face. She propped herself up on her elbow.

“What’s wrong Alondra?” She stared at her. Alondra green eyes met her. She felt something tug at her heart. Those eyes were her father’s for sure.

“That was my Aunt Blair! Her and my Uncle came are stranded in town. The SUV wouldn’t start.” She told her. Jerry looked at her curious.

“Well cars do breakdown Honey! Why are you so upset about this. The mechanic should have it up and running anytime.” She said to her. Alondra shook her head and began to pace back and forth. Then she looked at Jerry.

“Yes, they do. But Dad just had it service this weekend. And it’s never done this before.” Alondra informed her. Jerry sat up and stared at Alondra. Now that is strange.

Alondra had this gut feeling. Then she remembered something. For a moment. Deidra wasn’t anywhere o be found. Then all of a sudden, she and her dad are leaving. Where was she during that time? She rushed over to the chair by Jerry and stared in her face. Jerry could see something was churning in that pretty little mind.

“What is it Alondra?” She said to her.

“Jerry I know that I just met you and all. But I feel as if we have known each other forever. I can’t explain it, but I feel I could trust you. Even with my life.” She said to her, seeking out her reaction. Jerry eyes glimmer from the tears forming.

“Yeah, baby! I feel the connection too. It’s like you’re the daughter I lost.” She told her. Alondra felt herself tearing too.

“And you the mother, I never met.” She told her. They stared awkwardly at each other for a moment. Not knowing whether to hug or just let this marinate. Alondra had the solution. Start talking.

“Okay! Now that we have bonded some more. I’m about to say something and I don’t want you to judge me harshly for it. This is not something superficial. It is what I have felt from the first time I laid eyes on her.” Alondra began. Jerry sat back on the sofa, listening. She nodded her head for her to proceed.

“Our SUV is nearly brand new. Floor model. We have never had a minutes trouble with it. He just had it service. How in the world could it go out just like that. I drove it earlier to pick you up. Wouldn’t I have had some kind of warning it was getting ready to go out?” Alondra analyzing. Jerry looked at her not sure where she was going with all of this.

“Okay! So what is it you want me not to judge you on and who have you had a feeling about since you first laid eyes on?” She said then lights came on.

“This wouldn’t be about Deidra now would it?” She asked. Alondra looked down at the ground, fearing Jerry was going to go back on her word. And from her tone of voice, she may already have.

“I promised you to listen. So tell me! What are you getting at?” She encouraged her to go on. She didn’t want to break the bond they had formed. Alondra looked up into her eyes and saw she was sincere. She took in a deep breath and began to wring her hands.

“I think Deidra sabotage the SUV!” She blurted out. Jerry’s eyes narrowed, then she looked away thinking. Then her eyes went back to Alondra, who was still staring at her.

“Okay! What if she did? Why would she? What does she have against Kane and Blair?” She threw some questions at her. Alondra began to smile. Jerry knew then she had well thought this out.

“She wasn’t after Uncle Kane or Auntie Blair! She meant to get you and I stranded somewhere.” Alondra smiled triumphantly. Jerry rose to her feet and began to walk away from Blair! Then she turned her back to her. Alondra was nodding her head and smiling.

“Remember, we said we were going to be doing something today. And all the commotion about what was going on with my Auntie, she disappeared. My dad went looking for her.” She tried to jog her memory.

“Yeah, I remember we came back into the house after he convinced me to let him take me car shopping. She wasn’t in the house. But we did see them driving away.“ Jerry thought in silence for a moment. Alondra could see she was getting think something of what she had told her. Jerry folded her arms across her chest and rubbed her chin with one hand.

“You know what? She has a temper. I caught that today when you and your father had quarreled.” She told her. Alondra came over to her, standing a few inches taller.

“I think she has it out for you. She wants my dad bad for some reason and sees how he looks at you!” Jerry kind of blushed, which made Alondra laugh.

“Please don’t tell me you didn’t know!” She said to her. Jerry looked away. yeah she knows.

“Yeah just as I thought. You feel the same for her. That’s why she’s out to get you!
Be very careful! I don’t think I’m a threat. She figures come fall, I’ll be away. Damn!” She yelled after warning her. Jerry looked over to her, wondering what was the reason for the outburst.

“Auntie Blair!” She said, trying to figure out something. Jerry turned completely around to face her.

“What’s this about Blair!” She asked. Alondra looked at her with fear.

“She thinks she’s pregnant! She told me this morning. If she is, I don’t want her near that psycho!” Alondra began to get more angry.

“Alondra! Do me a favor! Don’t say anything to anyone just yet. We don’t want to alarm her if she is a crazy as we think she may be. Look! Who but a lunatic would want to strand to women out in no man’s land. All for the want of a man?” She explained. Alondra nodded. Yeah, it would be better to get some goods on the lady, before revealing her scheming ways.

“Yeah, but my Dad and Uncle will be going back to work soon. If she gets my dad by that time. I don’t want my Auntie left with her. And I know she will want my Uncle and Aunt out of the house.” She said. Jerry looked at her.

“But your father will not do it. He loves them too much.” She came to her. Alondra shook her head.

“She wants us all out of the way. She will do whatever it takes to do that.” Then Alondra looked at her long and hard.

“Watch your back Jerry! You are her biggest threat. And we don’t know how crazy her ass is!” Alondra let out a deep breath and walked over to the chair she was sitting in. Jerry turned away and walked over to the window, staring out. Then she thought to herself.

‘No! None of you know just how crazy this bitch is.’

Chapter Fourteen

Taker stood on the porch, looking out as he usually do. After dinner. Deidra had cleaned up the dishes and walked into the living room, noticing he was gone. She stared out to see him in that spot. Knowing what, no who was in his mind. She turned and went over to the bar in the family room. Poured them some red white wine and walked out on the porch, joining him.

He looked over to her, as she brushed up against him, handing him the glass. He smiled and took it in his hand, their hands gently touching each other. The atmosphere was just right for something romantic. She thought. It has to be done just right. Not to subtle. But not to aggressive either.

She turned and stared out as if she was interested in what he was seeing. She took a sip and took in a deep breath. His eyes went to her full breast as the went out and then back in with her breath. he took a big sip of wine and tossed his eyes back to where they had roamed.

“It’s really beautiful out here at night. So quiet and serene.” She said, taking another sip. She went to the banister and leaned in, butt stuck out. His eyes followed her and came to rest the curves. Fitted just right in her blue jeans.

His mind wandered back to earlier when the were lip locking. It had been sometime since his tongue glided over soft smooth tissue. He felt himself becoming aroused. He excused himself and quickly retreated into the house. She stood straight up, wondering where he was going. He came back out with a bottle of JD and six pack.

“Wine is okay! But this is the drink!” He told her taking a seat on the top step. She looked down at him, agreeing. She could drink with the best of them. She didn’t want him to know it though. Then an idea popped in her head.

“I’ve never drank anything stronger than wine. How does it taste?” She asked, sitting down next to him.

“You gotta be careful. The JD holds a punch!” He told her.

“Well then! Since I have to drive back. I’ll stick with the wine!” She told him and took another sip. He laughed and nudged her gently.

“I understand. You’re a girl!” He kidded. Her mouth flew open as if to say, ‘No you didn’t go there.’ He nodded his head in answer.

“Give me some! I’ll show you who’s a girl!” She told him. She tossed the wine to the ground and held her glass up to him, staring him in his eyes. He smiled and poured her some. She took in down quickly. Then jumped to her feet trying to catch her breath. Her ran to her and coached her into breathing slowly. She did!

“That stuff burns!” She said between breaths.

“I told you!” He reminded her, laughing. She looked at him with tears in her eyes.

“You ought to be ashamed of yourself! You knew I would do that!” She hit his arm gently.

“Yeah that’s true!” He said, still laughing. He grabbed the six pack and snatched a can from it, taking it to her.

“Here! Drink this.” He said, popping the tab. She took it and took small sips. She looked at him smiling. She had connected. Now to reel him in.

She took another dip of beer and walked over to the steps, taking a seat. He followed as she knew he would. He took another can of beer from the six pack and popped the tab. He looked out into the night, gulping down some of the beverage.

“Thanks!” He said and took another huge swig. She looked over to him.

“For what?” She asked softly. He looked over to her, staring in he clear blue eyes. He leaned in and hooked her chin with one finger.

She watched his eyes come closer, feeling his wet lips on hers. She closed her eyes as his tongue slipped through her slightly ajar mouth. His can of beer, fell to the ground. She turned into him, wrapping her arms around his neck.

He dropped his can, pulling her once again into his lap. He kissed her hard and long. Not wanting this night to get away, he stood to his feet with her in his arms and looked deep into her eyes. She nodded, knowing what they were asking. He went into the house and carried her up to his room.

“How could a cable snapped like that?’ Kane growled. They will be stranded in town until morning. Blair didn’t seem to mind, moving around the hotel room the had taken for the night. . It felt good to be away from the house.

“Kane! Look baby! Let’s just treat this like a mini holiday away from everything. I’m going to take a shower. You can stay out her and sulk. Or you can come here and wash my back and things!” She looked at him seductively, then entered the bathroom. Kane sat there for a split second and nearly tripped over his feet trying to run and take off his pants at the same time.

Alondra laid sleeping soundly in one of the rooms of Jerry’s house. Jerry looked in on her, watching as her chest rose and fell with each breath. Her head leaning against the post, hand on the doorknob. She sighed quietly and slowly closed the door. She leaned back on the door, thinking. Then she walked away, making her way to her room.

She closed and locked the door behind her. She went to her closet and pulled out a huge briefcase, taking it over to her bed. She jumped on the bed, one leg folded under her and snapped the locks on it. She slowly opened it, revealing its contents. She reached in and took out a stack of pictures, placing them in order on the bed.

Though she viewed them all with great diligent. Only one she took from the bed, staring hard and long at it. Tears began to fill her eyes. She placed the picture to her heart and fell backwards on the bed, crying.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t here for you! I was going through some crap at the time. But I make a promise to you. I’ll be here this time.” She said softly, then drifted off to sleep, picture held to her breast.

Chapter Fifteen

Taker laid Deidra on the bed. She back paddled to the head. He slowly began to unbutton his shirt. Her breathing was becoming eradicate. She wanted him bad. And now here was her chance. Then he eyes fell on the picture on his nightstand. She turned away and rolled out of the bed. He stopped and looked at her strangely.

“What’s wrong?” He asked, walking to meet her as she headed towards the door.

“I can’t do this!” She said and pulled the door open. He laid his huge flat hand on the door and closed it before she could exit.

“ I thought this is what you wanted.’ He said to her, watching her going towards the door.

“I did! But suddenly it just doesn‘t seem right!” She looked up at him. He ran his hands through his hair. He was ready and now she doesn‘t want it?

“You are so strange. You’ve been seducing me all day. No! Every since you got here!” He told her, voice low and frustrated. Her head turned towards him angrily.

“Seduce you! You tell me you didn’t want this as much as I! Look me in the eye and tell me you were reluctant to do this!” She turned on him. He backed away, knowing full well the reason he was angry. Was because he wanted he right now and she was pulling out.

“Taker! Look over at the night stand. That’s where your heart is. Not with me!” She said and walked out of the door. His eyes went to rest on Claire! Damn! She was so right. He turned away and ran after Deidra.

“Wait! I can’t allow you to leave like this. Please!” He gently caught her be the elbow just as she stepped down off the last step.

“Taker, its nothing to explain. You love you wife and no other woman will be able to fill her shoes.” She told him and slowly walked into the living room. He followed her. Tonight the JD, wine, beer and atmosphere were over ruling his better judgment. Normally he would have let her walked out of the house and back to her hotel room. But tonight had the makings of a disaster ready to happen.

“Look Deidra! That’s not true! I just haven’t found the right woman who could help me move on.” He walked up behind her, draping his arms over her shoulders and pulling her into him.

“And you never will. You judge every woman by her. And if they don’t come up to her standards, bam! They’re out the door. In the fall Alondra will be in school for years. Maybe even find someone to love. Then where will you be. Alone!” She said this and pulled out of his arms. She turned and stared into his nearly blood shot eyes. He walked passed her, thinking.

“Yeah! You’re right! I have been doing that! I can’t do this anymore.” He said and flopped defeated on the sofa. Deidra looked at him sympathetic.

“You loved her dearly. And no one should try to take that from you. She was an important part of your life. The Love of you Life! You don’t move on. You just put her in a special place in your heart and embrace the new one. That’s what you do Taker! Makes you the better! Don’t you think?” She said to him. He looked in her beautiful eyes and felt his heart tug.

“I have an idea!” He said jumping to his feet. He button up his shirt and tucked them into his pants. Deidra watched curiously. Then he took her by the hand and nearly dragged her out of the house and placing her on the passenger side. Jumped behind the wheel, leaving the house behind.

Alondra woke early as always. She knocked on Jerry’s door. It was partly opened and slowly swung wider. Alondra called to Jerry! No answer. Alondra stepped further in calling her, thinking maybe she was in the shower. Still no answer and all was quiet there. She looked out the door and could tell Jerry wasn’t in the house. She turned to walk out of the room, when she spotted the briefcase and pictures laid out.

She slowly walked over to take a look. She gasped in horror. It was pictures of her family. Her father and mother. Kane and Blair. When they were younger. And more up to date pictures of her Father, uncle and Aunt. And her from the time she was an baby until recently.

She then cast her eyes on a picture alone, placed on a pillow next to where she felt Jerry had slept. Her mother when she was young, with a girl who looked younger but looked very much like her. A sister maybe!

“But Dad never told me my mother had a sister!” Alondra said out loud.

“Because he never knew she did!” Jerry said, coming into the room. Alondra jumped turning in midair to face Jerry, who stood in the doorway. She looked as if she had been running.

Chapter Sixteen

Kane and Blair came around the bend into the clearing. Even though they had a blissful night. If you know what I mean! They were glad to be back home. The crew were unpacking their equipment. They got out of the car and welcome the guys.

Blair looked over and saw that Deidra’s jeep was already parked. She heard something between the guys as they pointed at it and laughed. Kane had already started towards the house and didn’t get it.

“Could you repeat that?” She walked up to one of the guys. The others looked away, sorry she had heard the sly remark.

“No disrespect intended Ma’am. I was just joking around.” He said to her. She touched his arm.

“That’s not why I asked. Deidra didn’t come in with all of you this morning?” She looked at each and everyone of them. They try to avoid eye contact. They had got it that she has been after Taker the moment she found out she was going on this shoot.

“No Ma’am! She didn’t sleep in her hotel room. And that’s all I want to say!” He threw up his hands and backed away. The others turned and walked away.

Blair looked down at the ground, thoughts running through her mind. Then her eyes went to the house. She turned and slowly began to walk towards it. Soon her feet picked up pace, as her pounded. She had a dread feeling. She rushed into the house, spotting Kane. She needed to tell him.

She came up to him standing in the living room. She never noticed the look on his face until she had came into the room. He stood there petrified. She followed his gaze to Taker and Deidra standing by the unlit fireplace, grinning from ear to ear.

“Kane honey! What’s wrong?” She asked, looking from her husband to the grinning pair. His head slowly turned to her. Then his eyes went back to his brother and Deidra.

“Honey, look! I don’t want you upset. So let me take you upstairs and lay you down.” he turned completely to her and place his hands on her shoulder. She searched his eyes. He had a lot going on in there. Shock, anger and confusion played the biggest.

“You’re scaring me! Taker what’s going on?” She asked, looking to her brother-in-law. Kane glared at him. The smile slowly faded away.

“Promise you want get upset. You know with the baby and all!” He said to her. She nodded.

“Baby? Blair is going to have a baby?” Taker left Deidra side and came up to his brother and sister-in-law. He took her in his arms before Kane could protest. Deidra looked at the threesome and started towards them, only took get a stare down from Kane. Taker set her down gently.

“Well Bro’! Looks like we both have good news to share today.” Taker said proudly. Blair could see whatever it was, Kane didn’t like it.

“What news Taker?” She came out and asked. Kane went to say something, but she raised her hand to silent him.

“Show her Deidra!” He said, beckoning her to come to him. She hesitantly walked to hi, still looking at Kane. He plays the derange brother of Taker in wrestling. But from the look he was giving her, she wondered how much is acting. She slowly held out her hand, flashing a ring.

“Is that what I think it is?” Blair’s eyebrows raised, staring at what she felt was a wedding ring.

“Yeah, we got married last night. Meet the new Mrs. Callus!” He proudly announced. Blair felt the blood rushing to her head. All she could remember is falling into Kane’s arms. just before the blackness overtook her.

After the shock and making an attempt to flee the room, fearing Jerry was one of those stalkers her father had told her about. That’s why no one knew about her. He wanted to protect her. But this woman had pictures of her family, from when they were young and one of her mother with another young girl.

But Jerry’s promise to explain kept her there. With a promise form Alondra to Jerry that if she tried anything she would kick her butt to high heaven. Jerry laughed and walked away towards the kitchen. Alondra following behind. She didn’t know why, but with everything. She really didn’t feel threaten by Jerry. She just knew she wouldn’t harm her.

“Okay! Explain!” Alondra ordered. Jerry poured herself some coffee and offered some to Alondra. She shook her head no. Jerry went to the back door and stared out. Picking her words carefully.

“I told you part of my life. It was true. But what I didn’t tell you is, why and how I lost my child.” She took a sip of coffee. Alondra shifted in her seek, listening intensely.

‘I grew up in an upscale neighborhood in Texas. Yeah, I’m from here. In fact I grew up in this very house. Your ranch was part of it. My father sold everything. He wanted to move to the city. That’s where we finished growing up.’ She took another sip, staring out of the door. Alondra sat up, staring.

“We?” Alondra asked. Jerry turned her head to her, staring with a smile.

“Yeah, we! My sister and I!” She answered. Alondra’s mouth slightly opened. Her eyes darted around the room. Why was she getting a sinking feeling here?

Chapter Seventeen

Jerry stood staring out the window, eyes fixed on a small hill in the far back. Her mind wondering back to a happier time in her life. Her sister and her had been hiking when they heard their mother’s voice calling to them.

They raced as the always done. The eldest of the two winning as usual. They came crashing into the house. Running through it looking for their mother, coming to the living room. The older sister spotted both parents sitting in the room. Then without any warning, she came to a complete halt and caused the younger to crash into her, falling backwards on her butt.

“Why you stop like that?” She yelled up to her sister, giggling.

She lifted herself from the floor. Then brushed the back of her jeans off, looking towards her sister, noticed something. Her sister was laughing or smiling. She was just standing and staring, face expressionless. The younger continue to assess her older sister’s face, as she walked up next to her, then followed her eyes into the room.

Something in her made her freeze in fear. Maybe it was the way her sister stood motionlessly, staring into the eyes of their father. Who in turned reciprocated. Or the way the mother stared at her two daughters with tear filled eyes. Then quickly turned away from them, rising as quick from her seat. Then rushing over to a window to stare out, back to them. Or maybe it was the whole dreary atmosphere that filled the air. But one thing she new, life as they knew it had come to an end.

“What is it Poppa? Momma?” The older sister asked, eyes darting from one parent to the other. The Father clearly could be seen taking in a huge breath. Preparing them for the speech. He beckoned them to sit down in front of him. They obliged. The Mother continue to look out the window, already knowing what was going to be told.

“I will be selling the ranch!” He started with protest coming from the two girls. He waved his hand to silence them.

“Jerry!” Alondra’s voice invading her trip down memory lane. She turned to her and smile, coming to take a seat at the table across from her.

“I’m sorry! I was remembering the day our father told us he would be selling the land.” Jerry had tears in her eyes. Alondra was feeling sad for her, despite the discovery of her family’s pictures in her possession. Then her cell phone rung.

“I wonder! Hello! Okay, I’ll be right there!” Alondra spoke into the phone, then snapped it shut, rising form the table. Jerry could see something was wrong.

“You want me to go with you?” She asked her. Alondra stopped, turned and stared at her.

“No! We need to finish this talk. Until then, I think its best you keep your distance from my family!” She told her and rushed into the room she had slept, tossing her things into her backpack. Once finished, she put the backpack on her back and hurried from the house, jumping on her bike. She gave Jerry one last looked and sped out of her sight.

“I deserved that. Stupid! You knew better than that. How could you leave things out like that!” She popped her forehead with her opened palm. She stared at the spot where Alondra had just disappeared.

“How can I get her to trust me without having to tell her everything?” She said sadly. Then she walked over to a chair place on one side of the porch. She lazily sat down in it, looking over the yard. Her mind wandering back.

“Look! This isn’t easy for me to tell you. So please, no more interruptions!” His voice louder than they had ever heard. The Mother glanced back and his eyes rose to meet hers. He nodded and breathe once again. They were young, he needed to be patient and understanding.

“I love you two with all my heart. And you know I wouldn’t do anything within my power to hurt you! You do know that, don’t you?” He asked, his voice very soft and loving. As his eyes washed over the two most prized possessions.

“Yes, Poppa! We know!” The eldest replied for the both of them, tears forming in her eyes. The youngest sat still as a mouse, you was filled with dread. This wasn’t like her parents. Something is wrong. Dead wrong!

“Good! I had been going to see the doctor for the pass two months. I was diagnosis with a rare disease. Soon I won’t be able to take care of this grand land. And I don’t want Grace or you to have to do this either. That’s why I will be selling everything. We’ll be moving to the city.” He told them. The oldest went into shock. She had heard bad things about the city. The youngest rose from her seat and walked over to her mother silently. She felt her next to her and gently wrapped an arm around her young daughter’s shoulder. Trying to console her. Then reality hit!

“Poppa! You’re sick!” The oldest cried out, realizing why all this had to be. The youngest head jerked around to stare into her father’s face. That’s when she knew, this was greater than losing the ranch.

“ Are you going to die?” The youngest blurted out, causing a stillness to overtake the room.” Father reached out his arms for them to come to him, they ran willingly into his embrace. He held them for dear life.

“No my dear child! That’s why we’re moving to the city. So everything I need will be right at hand!” He said, eyes closed as he took in the love his children had to offer.

Then his eyes snapped open to look into those of his loving wife. She express her undying love to him with one gaze, then left him to spend this time with his daughters. When they are alone in their bed, they will make love like no tomorrow.

“But a few years later. You did, didn’t you Poppa?” She whispered to herself, closing her eyes and squeezing out the tears.

Chapter Eighteen

“What?” Alondra yelled, running form the house, with her father close in pursuit. She will not run from him so easily. Deidra came to look out the window to see where this will go.

“Baby look!” Taker said, grabbing her by the arm and turning her around ot face him. Kane stood looking down at them from his bedroom window. Blair laid on the bed, eyes covered with a warm washcloth.

“How could you? You always tell me about being responsible! And here you go do the most outrageous thing, I couldn’t ever possibly think you would do!” She yelled at him. He place his hands on her arms, trying to get her to calm down.

“I know you’re upset and all! Just calm down and let’s talk about it!” He pleaded, she turned her head away from him, looking into the house and seeing Deidra staring out at them. She felt instant hate for this woman. In just a few days, she had destroyed her family.

“I hate her! She ruined everything! I will never like her or trust her! And you know this! This is not you! Look what she turned you into!” She looked back into his eyes, meaning every word!

“Yeah I know Baby! But that’s just it. I have been living this structured lifestyle for so long. I forgot how I use to be! She reminded me how much I missed!” He tried to explained. Alondra tilted her head to the side. At that moment he saw his brother in her.

“It’s good to know, that I brought you such a structured lifestyle and took all of your fun!” She said low and quietly. He stared at her, taking a couple of steps back!

“I can’t believe you! I didn’t say I hated my lifestyle. Nor every moment I spent raising you! That life was right for me at the time. But soon you will be gone to college, away from me. Who knows, maybe fins some young guy for yourself. Then where will that leave me? Alone!” He said to her.

“Uncle Kane and Aunt Blair will be here!” She continued her stance. He shook his head and turned away. Taking a small stroll away from her. She crossed her arms over her chest, glaring into the house at Deidra. Then he turned to look at her. She knew instantly she had angered him, his eyes were darken over.

“Your Uncle and Aunt will be having a baby in a few months! Hell, maybe even decided they want their own place! And God forbid they should entertain that thought!” He glared at her, his voice low and deep.

She felt her heart sink. He had never ever looked at her in that way. She didn’t know what else to do! She ran to her bike, jumped on it and turning on the ignition with one smooth gesture. He ran to stop her, but she was too quick. And just that fast, out of sight. He stood there helpless. He figured where she would be going. Jerry!

“Babe! Don’t worry! She’ll come around! It’s just a shock of how sudden it was!” Deidra slithered up beside him and placed a hand on his shoulder. He turned to glare at her.

“Will she? I need to get out of hear.” He snapped and heading for the garage. Diedra started to protest, but thought better.

She watched him vanish into the garage. Heard the bike start up and watched him spill out of it and peel from her sight. She stood posed for a moment, the anger swelling up in her. Then she walked over to a random bucket laying about and kicked it as far as it could fly.

“Hmmm! That went well!” Kane said, leaving the window to come sit on the bed next to his wife. Blair removed the cloth from her face, staring up at her husband. She could tell from the two bikes going, that both Taker and Alondra had left.

“Alondra and Taker are gone?” She asked. He nodded his head, not sure what to do.

“Where is Deidra?” She asked, he looked away.

“She’s down in the yard kicking things!” He told her, going into deep thought. She rested a gentle hand on his arm.

“What’s wrong? Something other than this whole fiasco is troubling you! What?” She asked, he looked at her hand and placing his own huge one over hers. Patted it gently.

“Look! You need to get some rest. You have already given me a scare.” He told her. She frowned and sat up in the bed.

“I am not going to do anything to harm this child of our. You just had this look on your face. You’re very worried about something. I can tell!” She continued. He looked over to her then rose from the bed, rubbing his chin.

“Maybe we should think about moving! Taker is just married and we’re having a child!” He said. She twisted her mouth, staring up at him.

“No! I will not leave me home for her or my baby Alondra in that witch‘s clutches! he snapped. Kane looked over to her strangely. He had never seen her so passionate about someone before.

“Honey! Calm down! I didn’t know you felt like that about her!” He sat on the bed, touching her leg gently with his hand.

“Yeah, tell me! She is no good. Got just what she wanted!” She looked about the room, angry. Kane’s eyes went to her.

“What do you mean?” He asked, staring at her.

“She got exactly what she wanted! Taker!” She answered, with a scuff. Kane’s head tilted.

“What? What do you mean she got Taker? She hadn’t known Taker until Vince put her on this shoot.” Kane informed his wife. She stared at him and shook her head slowly. His eyebrows wrinkled.

“She has known about the Undertaker character for years. And it just blew her away when she got this assignment. I wonder whose idea was it really?” She told him.

“What are you talking about? Where did you get this?” He rose from the bed and walked over to the window to look out. Deidra was nowhere in sight.

“I got it from her crew members.” She nodded her head, sucking her lips like she does when she’s delivered the goods. Kane shook his head.

“Blair, how many times have I told you not to repeat gossip!“ He looked over to her.

“No gossip! Actually, they didn’t know I was there when they started talking. When she didn’t come back to her hotel room and they saw that her jeep was still parked here, they began to talk amongst themselves.” She explained.

“Still gossip!” He informed her. Blair thought she heard a noise near their door. She left the bed to go investigate. She opened the door and peered out, not seeing anything came back in shutting the door.

Deidra lean quietly against her bedroom door, listening as the door shut. She looked over towards the bed Taker and her had spent the most passionate night in her life. She could still feel his presence over her body. Taste him on her lips. Smell him in her nostrils. She went to the bed, lying on it, caressing it with her hands. She laid on her back longing for more of him. She grabbed a pillow and screamed into it.

Obstacles! Why must there be obstacles? Her mind said.

“Oh dear Blair! You will be leaving My house! Sooner than later!” She whispered to herself, hugging the pillow to herself.

Chapter Nineteen

Alondra sped down the road trying not to cry. She didn’t know where to go! Jerry proved to be just as much as a phony as Deidra! All of them have turned out to be liars. Except for her Uncle and Aunt! They had always been honest and straight forward with her.

She continued onward and coming to a winding road, turned up into it. She sped through it instantly finally coming into the clearing. She brought the bike to a standstill, staring around, finally allowing the tears to escape her eyes.

She sat there for how long until she felt the gentle arms surround her and assist her form the bike. She went freely into the house and allowed the person to guide her to the sofa. She sat there staring at nothing particular, tears streaming down her face.

“Alondra, hon! What’s wrong?” Jerry asked. Alondra didn’t reply. Jerry rose to make a phone call, only to come to a halt.

“I think I can shed some light on this!” Taker’s deep low voice filled the room. Alondra hearing her father’s voice jumped up from the sofa and ran into the room she had slept the night before, slamming the door behind her. They thought they heard a click of the lock.

“Wow! She’s must really be angry at you if she felt it safe to come back her!” Jerry said looking towards where Alondra had gone. Taker eyes looked confused.

“I don’t get it! I thought you two were okay!” Taker walked over to her. She looked up to him and then turned and walked away. Rubbing her hand over the back of her neck, one hand on her hip!

“We were until she found some important things in a pile of my belongings!” She said, not looking to him.

“What? That’s not Alondra to go snooping in other folks stuff!” Taker turned towards the hall staring. Jerry looked over to him.

“Don’t be so harsh. They weren’t put away, just lying about on my bed. I had been looking over them the last night. I forgot and wnet for a walk. I guess she came looking for me and saw them there.” Jerry explained. Taker looked back to her.

“But still! She should have never went into your room What has gotten into that girl?” He said, looking back to the hallway!

“Which reminds me! Why aren’t you two at home? Why is she back here with you hot on her tail?” Jerry changed the subject. Taker took in a deep breath and walked over to Jerry!

“She’s pissed at me!” He told her. She looked at him and could see something was very wrong. It was the same look her father had on his face, just before telling them he was selling the ranch.

“Have a seat! You look like you need a drink!” She told him and went into the kitchen emerging a few minutes later with two bottles of beer. She handed him one and popped the top off the other, downing a nice amount. Taker took this in as he popped his top.

“When I’m finished telling you my problem. I intend to find out why my daughter had turned on the woman who she has gown to care for so quickly. And despite her anger, still returned to for safety.

Jerry took another drink and stared away, shifting uncomfortably in her seat. This was not going to be good. How would she explain pictures of Kane and Blair, Claire and Him, when they were all younger and in their dating stage? Or most importantly, a baby picture of Alondra. And then, why did she pretend not to know them. Her dilemma was eased.

“Ain’t no better way to say this than say it! Deidra and I were married last night!” Taker’s voice boomed into her ears. She jumped to her feet, dropping her bottle of beer. She looked at him in horror, numbed. What could she say? What was there she could do? This wasn’t suppose to happen! Her plan spoiled. It was her who was suppose to make him love her. Not that She devil!

Taker could see the emotions running through her. He rose to his feet, feeling like he had betrayed her. He walked over to her and pulled her into his arms. She looked up to him in disbelief. What went between them couldn’t be denied.

This was so right! He couldn’t resist! Holding her with arm and caressing her face with his other hand. He bend her face up to him and leaned in kissing her enticing lips. She tried to free herself from him. But he held her tighter than her father had that day their lives fell apart.

Alondra peeked around the corner seeing her father holding Jerry in his arms, planting a kiss on her that will surly leave her lips bruised. She smiled and move quietly away. Leaving the two alone.

Chapter Twenty

Reflections

Taker stood looking into the shocked eyes of Jerry! He had jut informed her he had married Deidra the night before. He could see in her eyes, the pain, confusion, betrayal and most of all disappointment. He didn’t know what exactly come over him. It was greater than the two of them. An emotion so strong, that you take a leap. He did!

Taker pounced on Jerry with a single motion, taking her into his arms, pressing her so close to him, you would have thought they were one. His mouth captured her lips. He kissed her, deeply. He moaned from the taste of her upon his tongue. She felt so familiar, yet so different. It was like holding his Claire in his arms once again.

Yet, he knew this was Jerry! Yes, Jerry!

One who had captured his heart, as Claire had many years ago. He felt her melt into him, surrendering herself to him, allowing him to probe her mouth with his long tongue, moving to the back of her throat, arousing that tender spot there.

She groaned into his mouth. Tears fell from her eyes. She didn’t want to ever to depart from him. But disconnect they must. She braced her hands on his chest and pushed away with every ounce of strength she within her. Their lips unlocked violently. He reached for her. She raised her hands to him, shaking her head and walked away.

“Jerry!” He called to her, eyes glistening from the water filling them.

“Go!” She said softly. He made a small step towards her. She cocked her head, hearing the movement. She turned and glared at him. His heart sunk. Those eyes! There they were! Claire’s eyes! Staring at him when, he had done something that disappointed her.

“GO!” She yelled, letting him know she meant it! His eyes grew large, as he stared into the face of someone he now knew had become very important to him. He turned and taking long strides, vacated the house.

Jerry watched as he left her sight. She listen as his bike roared away. Until only she stood alone in her home and silence surrounded her. She broke, falling to the floor in an heap, holding herself. She cried for what was and could have been.

He sped from the scene, hurt and angry with himself for being so reckless. He knew he had formed feelings for Jerry! Why did he go and marry this woman, who he had no feelings for except, friendship and lust!

He rode the bike harder than he had in a long time. In fact, not since the night Claire died. It was like losing her all over again. Those eyes were so much like hers. He passed the rode leading up to his ranch. No, he couldn’t deal with Deidra right now. She’ll have to wait!

“Taker hasn’t returned yet?” Blair asked coming down the stairs and seeing Deidra just entering the house. She had been sitting on the porch waiting for him to come back. She thought she could hear a distant rumbling of his motorcycle. But it slowly faded.

“No!” She said and continued pass her, standing on the last step! Blair tilted her head, an habit she acquired, from many years of being married to her husband.

“I know it’s none of my business, but seeing as Taker is my business. I feel we should have a very long talk!” Blair stepped down onto the floor and walked towards Deidra. Who had taken a seat on the sofa and had pretended to be reading a magazine.

“I don’t think we need a talk, long or short. And in fact, you should get an understanding! Taker is no longer your business. And this house is no longer yours. I am now the Lady of the house. Taker is MY Husband! Got it?” She tossed the magazine aside and stood to her feet, glaring a hole in Blair! Blair instinctively covered her middle with her arms. Deidra looked down at her stomach and the way she protected the unborn child.

“If you think you can get rid of us that easily, then think again!” She snapped at her and rushed passed her up the stairs. She paused momentarily, looking down at this woman who had come into her home and disrupted everything. She allowed the waiting tears to escape, running into her room and into Kane’s arms. He tried to console her, knowing it had to be something to do with Deidra.

Jerry sat on her knees, on the floor. Rocking back and forth, trying to weed through the pain and disappointment she was feeling for this man who had touched her in such a away. Long before she had laid eyes on him. And when she did see him for the first time. It reaffirmed what she had felt.

“How could he have betrayed so many memories, by marrying someone he hardly knew? How many times had you told me of him and how happy you had become? And yet he is all you had said and more. Yet, look at what he has gone and done?” She whispered to herself.

“I think its time you finished telling me the story of your sister and you!” Alondra strolled into the room. Jerry’s head snapped up, staring into eyes of the one who she had ordered out of her house. She looked down at the ground, thinking. Then her eyes returned to Alondra.

“Yeah! I think I owe you more than a finished story. I owe you an introduction. My Dear Niece!” She slowly rose from the floor. Eyes never leaving those of Alondra. She watched as they turned form defiant to stunned. Jerry smiled.

Chapter Twenty-One

Alondra stood dumbfounded at what Jerry had just said to her. She replayed it over and over in her mind. She shook her head, turning and walking away. She turn back to stare at Jerry! Then it registered in her heart first then her mind.

“What did you just call me?” Alondra’s voice breaking up. She wanted to hear it again, but not sure if she really did. Because then that would open up another can of worms she’s not sure she want to deal with.

“Niece! You are my niece Alondra!” She answered, pulling out a picture and holding it out to Alondra. She looked at her, frozen to the spot. Then her eyes fell on the picture.

She slowly recovered and began to walk towards Jerry, reaching for the picture. She hesitantly looked at it. Her eyes expanded, then looked up to Jerry. She nodded at the confused young woman, who was slowly sinking under unstable legs.

“Oh My God!” She covered her mouth with one hand and feel back onto the sofa, eyes going from picture to Jerry!

“That woman is insane Kane!” Blair paced about the room. Kane sat on the side of the bed.

“Blair come sit down and calm yourself.” Kane pleaded. Blair wasn’t hearing it. She continued her ranting.

“This ain’t your house! Taker ain’t your business! I’m now the lady of the house! How dare she just waltz right in here and think she can take over?” Blair looked over to Kane, who was staring at her. In his eyes she knew then. She began to cry!

He left the bed and took her in his arms. They would be better off leaving his brother and new wife their home to themselves. He would talk to Taker when he got home. He wondered where Taker was anyways. And his niece.

Taker sat on the old hard branch, looking out over the lake. He threw rocks in and watched them skid across the water. He listen to the ducks, geese and swans quacking around the lake.

How was he going to remedy this mess? He didn’t love Deidra. Why in hell did he do something some stupid? Jerry! She wouldn’t be speaking to him just right to soon. The way she looked at him, he should be dead.

“Why did it matter so much to her?” He said to himself and threw another rock over the water.

“It ain’t like we were in love or nothing! Even though I have some feeling for her. That I can‘t deny.” He threw another across, then took in a deep breath, pondering something. The kiss they shared before she kicked him out. All of a sudden, he realized it. He jumped to his feet.

“Wait! Yeah that’s it!” He jumped on his bike to go back to Jerry’s! He was going to make her admit what she was feeling.

“You’re my mother’s sister?” Alondra, try to digest everything Jerry had just told her.

“Yes!” Jerry replied, sitting across from the dazed young woman.

“Alondra, I know this is overwhelming, but with everything that’s going on. I felt I needed to come clean.” She explained.

“Why are you just now coming into my life? Where were you all those years? And why didn’t you ever meet my Dad?” She bombarded her with questions.

“After my Father died, I became very reckless. I did some stupid things. One was marrying a much older man much. He was 42 years old at the time. I was 18. I don’t know. Maybe I was in a sick way trying to revive my father. It broke my mother’s heart.” Jerry grew silence for a moment. Remembering the last time she saw her mother and sister.

“He was the same age as my father. Eww gross! I can’t imagine marrying a man my father’s age!” Alondra shook her head. Jerry looked over to her and smile.

“Maybe if my father was still alive. Neither would have I!” She injected. Alondra nodded understandingly. Jerry rose from the sofa and looked back at Alondra, who was still allowing all of this to satiate.

“Would like some ice tea?” Jerry asked. Alondra looked up at her with a new affection. Someone who would connect her to her mother.

“Yes, please!” She said softly. Jerry nodded and slipped into the kitchen.

Chapter Twenty-Two

“He was very wealthy. We left on an long tour.” Jerry continued, staring sadly into her cup of tea. Alondra folder her legs in front of her and listen, sipping her tea.

“Claire and I kept in contact with each other by phone or writing. Mother was still disappointed with me. She became ill a few months later. I spoke to her on the phone the night she died. It was sudden. A stroke! She asked for me. We told each other how much we loved the other. Then she died!” Jerry’s voice broke, she began to cry. Alondra sat her cup down and went to her aunt, holding her had new meaning. It was like finally getting a chance to hold her mother. In the distance she thought she could hear the rumbling of thunder. No this isn’t rain season. Then she knew.

“Jerry! Why don’t you go lie down for a bit. We have plenty of time to talk!” Alondra looked in her face and could see this was taking its toll on her. She smiled and nodded, then headed fro her room to get some rest. The day had been exhausting.

Alondra made sure she was in her room before she headed out on the porch. She watched as her father spilled into the yard. She stood on the porch glaring at him. This is one time she was not going to bend to him. He turned off the bike and looked over his daughter. He dismounted and slowly walked towards her looking around for signs of Jerry!

“She’s resting! And even if she wasn’t, I don’t think she wants to see you!” Alondra stepped off the porch to meet her father. He had just about had enough of her tantrums.

“Look Alondra, I know you are angry with me and all! But nothing you can say or do, is going to keep me from going into that house.

“Maybe not anything she can do! But there is something I can!” Jerry’s voice came from behind Alondra! She turned to see Jerry standing in the doorway with a phone in hand.

“Would you like for me to inform your bride you are over here harassing me?” Jerry asked him. He thought for a moment. Didn’t quite count this.

“No! But please give me a chance to talk to you!” He made a step towards her. She began to punch numbers. He stood still. Damn! He thought.

“Alright! You win, Jerry! But know something! I will not lose again!” He said, staring into her eyes. She felt electricity flow through her body from his look. Now she knew why her sister fell so deeply in love with him. His passion. He jumped on his bike and left the two.

“That was gutsy!” Alondra commended her!

“Yeah, but it only put him at bay for a moment! He’ll be back!” Jerry knew in her heart he was not going to let go. Could it be he sees Claire in her? Is that why he said he will not lose again? She turned and went back in the house.

Blair was sitting on the bed, angry at her confrontation with Deidra. She could hear Taker’s bike pulling up! Kane was taking a soothing bathe. She looked out the window and saw him putting his bike up. She also watched as Deidra walked towards him as he came from the garage. he could see he was not in the mood for her. She chuckled under her breath. We’ll see who is the Lady of the house, she thought. She left the bedroom and started down the stairs, as Taker and Deidra entered the house arguing.

Blair was halfway down when a board came loose, sending her spiraling down the stares. Taker watched in horror as her body came down the stairs resting in front of him. He yelled out her name and rushed over to her and taking her gently up in his arms.

“Go get Kane! NOW!” He yelled to Deidra, who sped up the stares calling to Kane! She bammed on the bedroom door until a drenching wet Kane, wrapped in a towel from waist down swung open the door.

“It’s Blair Kane! She fell down the stairs!” She began to cry. He looked petrified running to the banister and watching Taker hovering over her, stroking her hair! Kane ran back in the room and quickly pulled on his jeans, zipping them as he ran down the stairs, just missing the loose board.

“Blair! Blair! Come on baby! Answer Me!” He pushed pass Taker and pulled his wife in his arms. Taker ran to the phone and called 911! He was explaining what happened.

“Forget it Taker! I’m taking her to the hospital. She is bleeding!” Kane picked her up and carried her out of the house to the Lexi, putting her in the backseat so she could lie down. Taker watched as his desperate, no shirt or shoes. Brother drove his with to the hospital. He went back in the house and up the stairs, nearly tripping over the loose board. He studied it for a moment. Deidra slowly walked up to him.

“Watch your step! There’s a loose board. That’s probably what she tripped on. I’m going to take Kane a shirt and shoes.” He told her then headed for Kane and Blair’s room Deidra watched him from the doorway as he scurried around grabbing a shirt and shoes with socks.

“I’m going too!” She informed him. He passed her in the doorway, then looked back at her.

“No! You stay here!” He said and rushed down the stairs. She watched him leave her. She walked down the stairs, stopping at the loosen board, smiling.

“It’s okay Taker! You go be with them. But if this don’t help them to leave. Then I’ll think of something a little more drastic!” She said to herself, continuing down the stairs.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Taker had called ahead to let them know Kane was coming in with Blair! He explained what had happened and mostly that she was pregnant. So when he came peeling into the town, the local police were waiting to escort him safely through town. They zooming through and poured into the driveway of the hospital, up to a waiting emergency staff! They wasted no time pulling her out of the back seat and onto the gurney.

Kane exited the driver’s side, barefooted and shirtless. He was instantly at his wife’s side, who was still unconscious! He grabbed on to her hand for dear life, as they rushed into the hospital and down the corridors.

When they got to the emergency room, they gently laid her on one of the beds. A nurse bravely attempted to tell Kane he would have to leave. The look in his eyes told them all better. He stood back out of the way watching them exam her. Her OB/GYN had also been notified, he rushed in pushing the emergency team aside and immmediately checked her out.

Taker wasn’t long speeding into the hospital going in search for his brother and sister-in-law. He hurried down the hallways coming to the emergency room. He asked the nurse at the desk where they had taken Blair. She explained they were in the examining room, with her husband and doctor.

But she also explained he would need to wait outside. He gave her a look equal to Kane’s. She felt this wasn’t her day. He walked back and found them. He peered in and saw how frantic his brother looked. Then he looked down on Blair! She was so pale and lifeless.

He turned and walked away. It reminded him so much of the day Claire died. Then he remembered something. He quickly walked out of the hospital and pulling out his cell phone dialed a number. Alondra! He had to call her and tell her what happened.

“Jerry! I need to know more! If you feel up to answering my inquiries?” She sat on the sofa watching Jerry pace back and forth. Her sister had told her so much about Taker and his passion! She had always wanted that in her life. It always seemed to escape her. But now, it seems to have rushed into her life. From what her sister had told her. Taker wasn’t going to let this go so easy. Married or not!

“Jerry!” Alondra’s voice penetrating her thoughts. She looked over to her and sighed.

“Yes?” She asked wearily. Alondra could see all of this was tiring her out. But she needed to know one more thing.

“I know this has been an exhausting day. And I think you for being so open at this time. But there’s still something bothering me that I have to know.” Alondra stood and came over to her, staring into her eyes. Jerry nodded her head with an half smile. She knew this was the money maker question.

“Sure ask!” She answered, bracing herself for what was going to be the hardest part of the family reunion.

“Why didn’t you contact my Dad when you found out my mother had died? Or why haven’t you been around all of these years? If you loved my mother so much. Why didn’t you come to see about the baby she left behind?” Alondra had become very emotional at this time.

These thoughts had played in her mind as Jerry told her the story of the childhood, of a mother and grandparents she had never met. Jerry held all of the missing pieces and yet just now. After 18 years.

“It’s a long story Alondra! I didn’t stay away because I wanted to! I had no choice!” She began to wring her hands, tears flowing down her cheek as she gather herself to tell Alondra why she hadn’t come home, until now.

“I told you I lost my baby!” Jerry looked over to her. Alondra nodded. She knew this was going to be painful for Jerry.

“I didn’t tell you exactly when and how I lost her.” Jerry wiped the wetness from her cheeks, pausing for a moment. Alondra held back the tears looming behind her eyelids.

“It was the strangest thing. I think I may have gotten pregnant the night my Mother died. I was so happy! Claire wrote me and told me she was expecting. In fact, I think we were due around the same time. I guess we both needed consoling in the same way.” Jerry glanced over to Alondra, who gave a too much information look. Jerry smiled and went over to the window, looking back to those days.

“During my pregnancy, my husband began to act strangely. Coming home late. Sleeping on the couch. Hardly interacting with me. I thought for sure having a baby was something he wanted too. I guess I was wrong.” She grew quiet. Alondra shifted on the sofa.

“Rumors had started of some woman he was seeing. I didn’t want to believe it. Not my husband. He had been so loving and attentive. It wasn’t like him. But yet!” She stopped, thinking.

“One night he hadn’t come home from work. I went in search for him. First at the bars! I was told he hadn’t been there! I didn’t know what to do! I went back home. I fell asleep on the couch. He came stumbling in, drunk as a skunk. He made his way to our bedroom calling for me. I sat still, hearing him fall on the bed. I went in and there he was, passed out. I went back into the living room and slept on the couch.” She paused again, wiping her face.

“So two weeks before my due date, I followed him to her place. I waited outside to see if this was it or not. It was! He went in, but didn’t come out. I waited for some time before getting up enough nerves to go knock on her door. I did! She opened the door, smelling of him and draped in nothing but a sheer robe. She didn’t have the decency to answer the door in something a little more appropriate.” Jerry looked back at Alondra who was listening intensely. Jerry turned back to the window, swiping her face once again with the back of her hand.

“She stood there staring at me and asking who I was. I said nothing, just looking her over. I guess she was taking too long, because out her came. Naked as a jay bird. He was saying something sexy to her when he saw me standing there. I looked at him and whatever was on my face, brought him back to his senses. I turned and ran from the this place. I was so emotional, tears blinding me.” She began to tremble. Alondra slid to the edge of the sofa.

“I ran out into an oncoming car. It knocked me several feet in the air. I came tumbling down on the top and rolled violently down the back, landing of the hard gravel. He must have ran and put on his pants at the same time. Because he was holding me in his arms. His voice was the last voice I heard before I slipped into a coma. I was like that for many months. I guess this was my way of shutting down, not wanting to face the thought of losing my baby. They took it, but she didn’t survived.” Jerry leaned on the window pane for strength. Alondra came over to her aunt and wrapped her arms around her, holding her to her as she cried.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Alondra held Jerry in her arms, trying to console her. It hadn’t been an easy one for their family. They were the only two left from that side. Her grandparents, mother and a cousin. All gone. Except for Jerry and her! Jerry gently pushed back from her and stared into her eyes.

“When I came to, I called Claire! Someone told me she had died and asked who I was. I went blank and hung up the phone. Everything I had loved was gone.” Jerry told her.

“I didn’t know or was up to knowing if you had survived. I wasn’t told how she died, just that she had. But then I didn’t give them much of a chance either. I went away and divorced my husband. Despite his contesting it. I had grounds, he didn’t. I won he lost.” She walked away. Alondra stared at the ground, trying to digest everything just told her.

“I heard he died some months ago in an freak bathroom accident. He had just been married for three months to some woman half his age. Radio fell in the tub or something.” Jerry took a deep breath and holding it for a moment, let it out. She went and sat in the chair by the window. She loved sitting in a chair like this as a child, staring for a long time out the window. It seemed to relax her.

Alondra came to sit on the sofa, when Jerry’s phone rung. Alondra gestured for her to remain seated and that she would get it. Alondra picked up the phone and said hello. Her facial expression changed when she her the hesitant voice on the other end.

“DAD?” She called into the phone.

“Why are you calling here? Didn’t she say she didn’t want to be........” She was cut off and grew silent, as he interrupted her. She slowly braced herself against the wall, sliding down to the floor and listened to her father explained what happened.

Jerry was staring out the window when she heard who was on the phone. His passion, she thought. How many times did her sister mention that over the phone or in her letters.

Yes, she needed his passion at this moment. She needed him to help ease the pain she was feeling right now, bringing back memories so long forgotten. She didn’t know if she should run to phone and tell him to get over there, make love to her until the morning light or just stand her ground.

But the silence caused her to turn and look over to Alondra sitting on the floor. She slowly rose from the chair and walked over to her. She took the receiver out of her hand. It was dead.

“Alondra! What’s wrong?” Jerry stooped down to her. Alondra was in a dazed. Her eyes lazily looked at Jerry!

“It’s Blair!” Alondra told her. Jerry sat down on the floor in front of her.

“Blair! What’s wrong with Blair? She asked, fearing the worst.

“She fell down the stairs!” Alondra coming to herself. She looked at an concerned Jerry.

“Jerry she’s pregnant!” Alondra told her. She rose quickly from the floor and helped Alondra to her feet. The two ran out of the house and sped away on the motorcycle. Jerry knew she couldn’t allow Alondra to make this trip alone.

Someone walked around the house from the back way. Then made their way onto the porch. Looking around to make sure everything was clear, made their way into her house. They looked around picking up little whatnots, checking them out and gently sitting them back in place. And proceeded to look around more. Satisfied with the self tour of the home, took a seat in the chair by the window, staring out over the land. The sun was heading towards the west, preparing for its descent.

“Nice little place you got here Jerry! But we need to get some things straight! I’ll just sit and wait for your return. I think we’ll have a better understanding afterwards!” They said, crossing a leg over the other.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Taker snapped the cell phone closed, gripping it in his hand! He paced back and forth in front of the hospital. He looked in the doorway, down the hallway leading to the emergency room. He should be there with both Kane and Blair! But he needed a moment, he thought. Then he would go in.

He walked over to a bench, placed against the wall and took a seat. He spread his legs in front of him. His mind wondering back to the night he had met Claire! Them bumping into each other. Her hazel brown eyes staring into his own. The emotions that hit him instantly. A lot like the night he met Jerry! How could two women be so much a like?

Jerry! Once again a light shines bright in his heart. And yet his darkness looms also! What was he thinking to marry on such an impulse? He knew there was nothing between Deidra and him. But the drinking and she seemed to know what was missing in his life. Not many people get a second chance. One moment of weakness, may have caused him to lose that chance.

“Dad?” The voice brought him out of his deep thoughts. He looked up into green eyes that matched his own. The strayed over to a second pair. Light brown, staring at him. He thought he saw a glimpse of kindness in them.

“Why are you out here? Oh! Don’t answer! Mom huh?” She walked up to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. He pulled his daughter close to him and felt as if his legs would buckle under him. Jerry turned away from them. Not wanting them to witness the tears that flow. One for the child she had loss in a similar accident. And the loving sister lost in childbirth.

“Jerry? Oh wow! How insensitive of me! I shouldn’t have allowed you to come. Considering everything!” Alondra had released her father and turned around to address Jerry. That’s when she realized the impact this was having on her aunt.

“What are you talking?” Taker looked from one to the other. Jerry looked over to Alondra, who looked from her to her father. She shrugged at her, not sure she wanted to tell him or not.

“Nothing Taker! This isn’t about me right now! We or correct me. Both of you should be with Kane and Blair! I can only imagine what their going through.” She looked at them both.

“Yeah! Dad we should get inside and see what’s going on!” Alondra said and begin walking into the hospital! Taker eyes squinted, staring at her. He nodded his head, letting her know she was off the hook for now. But this will be taking up on a later date.

Taker started back out the hospital and walked towards her, eyes fixed on her own. She couldn’t turn away, it seems like he had an hold on her. Then he continued pass her into the parking area where his bike was parked. He removed a bag from it and came back towards her the same way, heading pass her and into the hospital. Jerry shook her head slightly. This man just doesn’t give up does he?

Kane had been standing outside the examining room when Alondra rushed up to him and into his arms. He held his niece tenderly, crying lightly. She rubbed the back of his head, speaking encouraging words. Taker came upon the scene and stood back allowing this time between them. Alondra pulled back a little just enough to look in her uncle’s face. The worried etched there.

“What did they say Uncle Kane? How is Aunt Blair and the baby?” She inquired. At that time Taker walked up and handed his brother the bag.

“Here’s a shirt and shoes, Kane!” He broke the moment. Kane nodded and took the bag. He took a seat in a chair and put on his shoes. Then began putting on his shirt. Alondra took a seat next to him, while taker leaned against the wall, watching the two.

“What I can’t seem to get! How in the hell did that stair step loosen up like that?” Taker had his arms crossed over his chest. Kane looked at him then down to the floor.

“Kind of like the SUV going out!” Alondra interjected. Taker stood straight. Kane looked from Alondra to him. Strange things. Kane saw that Taker had passed the discussion and was looking towards the room where Blair was lying. The doctor was on his way out. Kane left the chair and rushed up to him with Taker and Alondra flanking him.

“Well Doc?” Kane’s voice showing the strain.

“I checked both Blair and baby out thoroughly! From what all the test results that have come back, they’re both fine. Blair landed in a way that protected the baby. She’s going to be a little bruised and in pain for a few days. But everything should be okay! We were able to stop the bleeding. So we’re going to keep her here on bed rest and observation for a week!” The Doctor explained, with a round of exhaling from the three. Then he headed down the hallway, checking his pager.

“Kane! That is such an relief!” Taker was holding his head between his hands, laughing. Alondra was thanking God for being so kind to them. Kane was speechless, leaving them and running into the room with Blair.

“I’m glad for you!” Deidra said coming down the hall. Both Taker and Alondra’s heads snapped towards her. Alondra instantly loss the good fuzzy feeling. She turned and went to join her uncle and aunt. Taker eyes grew dark with anger. Now she was getting to be annoying.

“I asked you. No! I told you to stay at the house. You couldn’t do that, could you?” He shook his head.

“What? Do what Taker? I’m your wife! My brother-in-law, your brother’s wife fell down some damn stairs. And she’s pregnant! What was I suppose to do? Am I not part of this family?” She looked at him for an answer. Taker glared at her, then turned away.

“I’m going in to be with my family! Go home and do something there for us! It’s not much that can be done here.” He turned and looked over to her.

“Fine! I’ll go home and keep it warm!” She stared long and hard at him, then walked away. Taker watched her disappear around the corner, then went in to join his family.

Jerry had stood unseen, taking in the scene. There was something definitely plaguing this family. To many coincidence. First the SUV goes out. One they said had been just checked over the weekend in before. Now the loosen step. And from what she saw going on between Taker and Deidra. The coincidence may lead to something a little more drastic. And that is something she wasn’t going to allow. She left the hospital in a taxi. She would talk to them later.

Chapter Twenty-Six

She pulled up in front of her house and noticed there was a light on. She didn’t remember leaving a light on. She paid the driver and slowly walked up on her porch and peered in. She caught her breath when she saw a figure moving in her home. She looked for a nice size stick and eased the back door open, coming up behind the intruder. Who sensing that they weren’t alone, turned quickly to face her.

“Hello Jerry! Surprise!” They said to her. Jerry dropped the stick with a clump.

“What are you doing here? I told you I had it under control!” Jerry walked pass them taking a seat on the sofa. The person followed, sitting in the chair they had been sitting and waiting for her.

“Look Jerry! We’ve been together how long?” They asked.

“Look Cage! I don’t need you to interfere with this assignment! I’m doing just fine!” Jerry yelled. Cage looked over to her and shook his head.

“You know for a moment there I thought you were going to come clean all the way with the girl. What’s her name? Alondra! Now she’s gorgeous!” He smiled, sipping some wine he had poured for himself. Jerry glared.

“Keep away from her! No matter how this goes down, she or her family are not to be hurt!” Jerry warned. He sat the glass down and lifted his hands in the air.

“Hey! This is your job! Just as long as you don’t allow your feelings to get in the way of what is needed to be done! Then you have no problem with me! Or anyone else! If you get my drift!” He leaned back in the chair and stared at her. She scowled at him and sat back on the sofa, crossing her legs.

“So when do you think you’ll be leaving?” She asked bluntly.

“Oh, you hurt my feelings!” He laid his hand across his heart and played out being hurt.

“I’m serious! When are you leaving? Like maybe now!” She suggested. He stood and took the glass with him. Then went over to stare out the window.

“Jerry! You’re good at what you do! Pretending to be something or someone you’re not, to get the job done. But this time you’re over you’re head. Too emotionally involved this time. You’re becoming sloppy!” He told her. She looked at him confused.

“What are you talking about?” She asked, eyes shrinking. he turned and looked at her.

“The pictures! She saw the pictures which jeopardized everything. You had to tell her something to divert her. Not to mention you almost came told her.” He said, coming back and taking his seat.

“No! No I would have never told her. I would have said something convincing! I’m not stupid!” She reminded him. He looked at her, softening up some.

“No you’re not, Jerry! But must I remind you what is at stake here? Whatever else is going on. I need you focused! A lot is riding on that!” He aid to her, then stood to his feet. He looked at her and she back to him. She watched him pass by her, going to the front door. With a backwards glance, he slipped out of the door and into the night. Jerry knew he would be somewhere watching her.

Jerry walked into her bedroom and pulled out the briefcase containing the pictures. She looked over one, then another. The first was of a man she had married at an very early aged. He was nearly twenty years her senior.

“My dear James! Just seems you couldn’t do anything right when it came to judging people! You missed judged me loving you. And missed judge the woman you married.” She rubbed his face with her finger. She then gently placed it back in the briefcase.

“Radio falling in the tub indeed. One thing you were, was a safety freak. No way you would have had a radio near you in a tub. You wouldn’t even want it in the bathroom. I should know. How many times would I suggest we bring it in the bathroom and listen while we sat in the tub? You wouldn‘t have it!” She sat thinking for a moment. Then she looked at another picture in her pile. A beautiful tall slender blonde, poised next to James in a wedding picture. Eyes crystal clear blue.

“Deidra! You thought you got away didn’t you? James may have been simple at times, but he didn’t deserve what you did to him. You’ll pay! I’ll personally see to it!” She tossed the picture and others in her briefcase and hid it away. Can’t have Alondra snooping about again, hindering what she had to do. She began to disrobe, going into the bathroom to take a shower.

Taker and Alondra left the private room Blair had been transferred. Kane walked beside them silently. Each in their own thoughts, but relieved things weren’t as bad as they could have been. Alondra walked between the two men she loved most in the world, with her arms wrapped about each waist. The overlapped their arms on her shoulders.

“I’ll be back in the morning with some fresh clothing for you Uncle Kane.” She told him.

“Thank you. You’re a good niece.” His voice shaky. She smiled and nodded. Taker pulled his arm from her shoulders, stopping just outside the hospital. He looked down at his daughter.

“So does that mean you will be spending some time home?” He asked abruptly. She looked at him then to the ground, her mind running through everything. Then her eyes met his own.

“Yeah Dad! I’m coming home with you. You shouldn’t be alone.” She said. She wanted to check out something she was feeling inside. But she didn’t want to alarm neither her Dad or Uncle to what she was thinking. Maybe she could run this by Jerry when she picked up her things.

“Well now, you know I’m not alone. I do have a wife.” He reminded her. Her face crinkled up.

“You had to remind me didn’t you? Nevertheless, I’m going to be home for now on. Especially when Aunt Blair gets home!” She told them both. Kane turned and walked a small distance from the, hands running through his hair. Taker looked over to his brother, knowing what that meant. He needed to say something and didn’t know quite how to say it. Alondra knew too.

“What is it Kane?” Taker asked. He turned to face them, eyes with a little sorrow.

“I’m not going to bring Blair back there. I’m thinking about maybe getting us a place of our own. A single dwelling. I don’t want to take anymore chances on this happening again.” He told them. All three stood staring for a long time. Not wanting to touch what was said. Each knowing everything had changed in such a small amount of time. And never will be the same.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Deidra paced back and forth, waiting for Taker to come home. When she heard the roaring bike she was relieved he had finally come back. She ran to the mirror, making sure everything was in place. She had on a long black sheer lace negligee, with matching robe. She wore red heeled slippers. Her make up with in place. She brushed her hair quickly and started down stairs to the lounging room. She had put some wine out with some appetizer. She was going to make this a night to remember. She stood seductively halfway down the stairs, waiting like a black widow for her prey. She could hear the footsteps on the porch and keys jingling. The lock clicked, then the door slowly opened. She fixed herself, watching the door intensely. In walked Alondra!

“Oh!” She said, causing Alondra’s head to snap up to her, while she closed the door and locked it. Alondra turned around, never taking her eyes from Deidra.

“Oh I see! Another night of seducing my Dad into doing what you want huh?” She walked pass the stairs, heading for the kitchen. Deidra felt like blowing fire, she was so angry. Where was Taker? She thought. She came down the stairs and gather herself. She had to play nice if she was going to get anything out of this one.

“I didn’t know you were coming home or I would have prepared dinner for more.” She slither into the kitchen, eyes fixed on Alondra as she moved about, never looking at the woman speaking to her.

“I’m sure you didn’t expect me home tonight! You‘re dressed to kill!” Alondra said, as she took some bread, sandwich spread, lettuce and tomatoes from the refrigerator. She walked over to the table and sat everything down on it.

“Look Alondra! I know you don‘t like me and I understand why!” She walked over the kitchen counter watching Alondra caressing her chin and studying everything she had on the table.

Deidra reached over, taking a knife from the dish rack. She slowly walked up behind Alondra, bringing the knife down over her head and in front of her face. Alondra seeing the glittering sharp object just inches from her, jumped back into Deidra. She placed her arms around her waist holding her to her body. Knife in the other hand, extended out.

“Be careful my dear! Accidents do happen!” She hissed in her ear. With wooden handle towards her, handed Alondra the knife. Alondra snatched it out of her hand and turned and jumped back. She held it pointing it at her.

“Yeah, accidents do happen. So take you own advice!” Alondra warned her. Then all of a sudden Deidra broke down and began to cry.

“What the hell is going on?” Taker asked walking into the kitchen. Neither had heard him come up or come into the house. He had heard voices coming form the kitchen and automatically followed them. He came in on Alondra threatening Deidra with a knife.

“Asked her! All of a sudden, I’ve lost my appetite. I’m going over to Jerry’s and get my stuff!” Alondra left the two in the kitchen and headed out the door and jumped on her bike. She needed to get her things before it got to late. And she needed to discuss something with Jerry.

Deidra was still sobbing, when Alondra slammed the front door and she heard the SUV pull away. She looked up at Taker and slung herself into him. He kept his arms to his side. She was crying and mumbling things he couldn’t make out.

“Deidra! It’s late and I’m really tired. I’m going to take a nice hot shower and go to bed. I’ll talk to you in the morning.” He told her, turning form her and walking away. She stood there in the middle of the kitchen for some time before she realized she was alone.

Jerry came to answer the knocking at her door. It was Alondra and she swooped pass her. Something had her upset. Jerry closed the door and followed her into the bedroom she had been staying while there. She watched her gather her things and tossed them into her backpack.

“You’re going?” She asked. Alondra looked up to her still simmering.

“Yes! I can’t let Dad stay in that house with that woman alone. I don’t like her and definitely don’t trust her!” She walked passed her in the doorway into the living room, flopping herself angrily on the sofa. Jerry slowly followed behind her.

“What’s wrong? I left you all with some happy news.” She told Alondra, taking a seat in a chair. Alondra slouched in the sofa, looked up at her.

“I wondered when you left. Couldn’t find you anywhere until the nurse told me you had left a message you would talk to me later.” Alondra looking at her. Jerry shifted in the chair, staring at her hands.

“I didn’t feel it was a good idea for me to be there. With all things considered. And the news from the doctor was encouraging. But that still doesn’t answer why you’re so angry. What happened after I left?” Bringing the conversation back to where it started.

“Deidra! Every since this woman showed up a few days ago, everything has happened that could happen. First the SUV went out. Days after my Dad had it serviced. Now a loose step on the stairs. My Dad or Uncle were handymen geniuses. They wouldn’t dare allow anything go undone around that house.” Alondra sat up and leaned towards Jerry. Jerry slightly tilted her head to the side, taking in everything said to her. Then she caught something in Alondra’s face that concerned her.

“Alondra?” She said. Alondra looked form side to side as if making sure they were alone.

“I’m going to go to town and find out something about what was wrong with the SUV!” She began.

“And in the morning, I’m going to have someone to come over and check that step out.” Alondra nodded her head. Jerry’s face went grim.

“Alondra! What are you getting at?” She asked. Alondra looked dead in her eyes.

“Deidra is a psycho! I have this gut feeling there’s more to her than we know. I’m going to find out what it is.” She said this and rose form the sofa, walking over to the window. She couldn’t see the displeased expression Jerry’s face.

“Alondra I don’t think you should be trying to make something out of nothing. Freak accidents. It happens everyday. A person could walk on a floor over and over. Then one day slip on that very floor for no reason at all. Are a person could use a plug over and over and then zap, get the shock of their lives. It happens.” Jerry stood to her feet. Alondra turn to stare at her, pondering something.

“Then imagine this. A person comes up from behind you and brings a knife down in front of you, then whispers threatening in your ear. ‘Be careful, accidents do happen.’ She walked over to the sofa and picked up her back pack.

“What are you saying?” Jerry eyes without any emotions.

“I don’t know Aunt Jerry! I just have a feeling I maybe having an accident, care of Deidra!” She answered, turned and left the house. Jerry stood motionless for sometime before rushing to the phone and dialing a number.

“Get your ass over here, NOW!” She yelled into the phone and slammed it down. She stalked around the room like a tigress caged in.

She had to do something. Alondra was going to spoil all her plans. She needed to get her out of the way. But how? Then a plan formatted in her mind.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Taker had moved some of his things in one of the guest rooms. He sat on the edge of the bed pondering everything that has plagued his family for the last few days. It had been some very strange few days. It all started with that magazine shoot via Vince! He’s always thinking of ways to make money. Even at other’s expense.

That’s about when his family started to fall apart. With the entrance of Deidar and the magazine crew. Basically Deidra! She had the biggest impact on everything that has gone on. For some reason Alondra took a instant dislike of the woman. He didn’t know why.

First he thought maybe she could see that she had eyes for him and felt threaten someone had finally come into his life that would take the place of her mother. He guess seeing her locking lips by the lake, the very spot he deemed her mother and his place. Didn’t help much.

That’s when she left to go stay with Jerry. She was just the opposite with the new neighbor, who had come into their lives about the same time and equally impacting it. Alondra liked her a great deal. So the taking her mother’s place theory was blown out of the water.

Now Kane and Blair won‘t be coming back to the house. Which is understandably! First the SUV stalled on them. He had just had that thing serviced that weekend. Then the step! He doesn’t remember feeling the step loose or her would have fixed. He surly knows Kane would have.

That was a scary moment seeing Blair tumbling head over heels down the stairs and hitting the floor with such force. And through it all, she managed to land, protecting her baby. Yeah, he would take his pregnant wife away too.

Deidra! What was he going to do to solve that problem? No use making a bigger mess. He’ll have to do the right thing. They just can’t stay together for a short length of time. It has to look as if they were trying to work it out, then he will ask for a divorce and give her a nice settlement. That seems to always soothe the divorcing women a lot. Well, the ones who are after money.

He rose from the bed and headed for the shower. It always seemed to soothe his mind, when he allows the steaming water to run over his head and down his body. It felt like small fingers massaging his muscles and sinews. He closed his eyes and got lost in the caress.

Then his mind begin to form an image of a woman! Jerry! Just when he thinks he has it figured out. It always leads back to her.

He realizes how wrong he was. Her image seemed to be staring in his face, with those eyes that capture you and don’t let you go. Their faces pulled closer to each other, lips brushing the others. His body began to go through some noticeable changes, as his mind lingered on the kiss they shared earlier that day and how tasty she was.

She pressed her hands against his chest and gently guided him down onto the outlet in the wall of the shower, that formed into a seat. He sat, while she straddled him and moved over his now erection.

Her hands came to the sides of his face, holding it and placing small feather-like kisses on his lips. Moving downward to his neck and nibbling on his ears. All while she slowly moved her hips downward, causing him to enter her with his tip. He let out a audible groan.

She raised her head up, staring long and hard, eyes darken with passion. She wanted him badly. She needed him inside of her more than anything in this world. With one smooth gesture and without warning, she locked their lips in the deepest kiss they had every shared, while coming down on him with great force.

The vibration of the moaned he sent through her body sent currents to every nerve in her. She pulled up just allowing the tip to remain in her. Then once again came down on him, causing him to thrush deeper into her. This time she threw back her head and yelled out her pleasure.

She continued this several more times, until he grabbed both butt cheeks and began to guided her up and down on him. Increasing the pace, faster and faster until they reached that point of no return. She screamed his name feeling his flood filling her up. He called out hers, as her love juices flowed around him warm and sweet.

His eyes slowly opened! He was spent. He began looking about, seeing that he was alone. It had been a fantasy dream. A wet one at that. He removed his hand from his member, realizing what had just happened. He leaned his head back into the wall. His heart beating rapidly and breathing slow and deep. He stared at his hand and shook his head. This is what it had come to.

Deidra quietly backed out of the room, shutting the door just as silently and rushing back to her room. She had went to his room to see if they could talk. She heard the shower going and thought maybe she would surprise him by joining in. That‘s when she heard the moaning and groaning. She knew what was happening in there.

It wasn‘t going to stop her. She realized more he needed her in there. But then he called out a name. Not her name. Jerry‘s! She pressed against the door, as the tears flowed down. She knew this one would be trouble for her. It was always the way he looked at her. Not like he looked at her.

She threw herself on the bed, grabbing a pillow and let out a scream. She sat up in the bed, breathing rapidly and looking around the room for something to destroy. She ran to the dresser and picked up his favorite cologne, preparing to toss it out the window. Her eyes came to rest on the woman in the mirror, crazed looking. It scared her. She put the bottle back and looked at herself.

“What you have done is allow your feelings to over-rule! You need to take back control. Then you can think clearly.” The reflection said to her. She stared for some time, thinking on what was just said to her.

“Yes, you’re so right. The problem with this one is, I cared when I shouldn’t have. They’re all the same. Once they take your virtue, then they seek the affections of another.” She walked away from the mirror and took a seat on his side of the bed. She ran her hands over it.

“Well, tomorrow that will all change. I’m going to hit him where it hurts the most. I’m want to see him suffer when everything he holds dear is taking from him. My dear Jerry! I think its time you and I become friends.” She smiled deviously, planning how she’s going to develop a friendship between a woman she hated, but the one her husband loved.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Jerry rushed to the pounding door. She was irate! He only does these things to get on her nerves. She swung open the door and glared angrily at the person on the other side. She turn abruptly and walked away, leaving him standing on the porch. He laughed and came in, closing the door behind him.

“Cage! Do you have something you want to tell me?” She turned on him before he could enter the living room. He stopped and stared, seeing she was more than pissed with his pounding on the door. But then if he had a lick of sense as far as she was, he would have figured that out from the phone call.

“No!” He replied, trying to retrace things in his mind. Jerry folded her arms across her chest, eyes narrowing. Then something brighten in his eyes. She nodded her head in agreement.

“I thought I would tell you in the morning. I didn’t want you doing anything to jeopardized this.” He tried to explain. Jerry began to pace back and forth, keeping her distance from him.

“She could have killed her tonight! And you didn’t feel it was important to inform me?” Her voice was slow and quiet. He knew from the sound she was holding back.

“No! She wouldn’t! I had her insight. One flinched and she would have been gone.” He told her. She uncrossed her arms and ran her hand through her hair. She walked over to the window and stared out.

“You were right! I’m not thinking straight on this. I shouldn’t have taken this assignment. But I thought I could kill to birds with one stone!” She shook her head.

“I know! But there’s no turning back. You’re here now! She knows who you are. You’ve gotten the worst part aside.” He walked further into the room, seeing her anger had subsided some.

“I’m not so sure of that!” She told him. He looked at her confused. She turned to him, with something in her eyes. He slapped his forehead.

“Oh no Jerry! Don’t tell me you’ve fallen for the Dad!” He flopped onto the sofa , staring and waiting for an answer.

“Yes!” She said softly. Then he nodded his head, raising his hands in the air.

“Of course! Which makes this more emotional then had planned.” He said, rubbing his hand over his face, then looking up at her.

“Yes! I only thought I would have to deal with getting to know my niece and doing the assignment. I wasn’t counting on falling for my sister’s husband!” She turned back to the window, tears falling down her face.

“But there is one thing you’re forgetting. And this may help you to stay focus until this is all over. There is a murderess in their home. She may be the one who sabotaged the SUV and stairs. Blair and the baby could be dead at this very moment. Except by grace.” He told her. She wiped her face with her hand, took a deep breath and allowed it to escape slowly. Then she turned to him with a new determination.

“You’re right! This situation shouldn’t interfere with what needs to be done. But fuel it the more. Which brings me to why I really called you!” She started. He sat back pleased she had come to her senses.

“I’m all ears.” He said.

“Alondra must take being nosy from me. She came to me tonight. She’s going to get herself knee deep! I don‘t want that!” She told him.

“Okay! What is it you want for me to do!” He asked, pleased she is going to use him other then as an look out.

“I want you to become an handyman. Become friends with Alondra! You’re not that much older than her. And ugh! From a girl her age, you are a hunk!” She stuck her finger in her mouth faking an attempt to vomit. He laughed.

“Sure! How about I check on that step for starters?” He was going to enjoy this.

“Yeah! I’m going to give them a call in the morning and let them know I’m sending you over, who I have deemed a good handyman who could give the place a once over.” Jerry added.

“Eliminating anymore surprises she may have up her sleeves.” He said. Getting to know Alondra will be nice. From the moment he saw her he thought she was a nice wholesome girl.

Cage is 24 yrs old, standing 6’4”. Built like a football player. Long blond hair, that he kept in a pony-tail. Deep blue eyes. A decent guy, Jerry thought. Looked at what he chose as an profession. FBI!

Chapter Thirty

The next morning, Alondra ran to the door and opened it up to the most beautiful man she had ever saw. Jerry had called ahead and told her she would be sending over a handyman to check the place out. But she didn’t mention he was an hunk!

“Howdy Miss! My name is Cage. Jerry sent me over.” He introduced himself to her. Alondra was staring so hard she didn’t hear him at first.

“Oh! Yeah, she phone me this morning. Come in.” She stepped back and waved him in. He stepped in assessing everything with one quick glance.

“I guess Jerry told you my Aunt fell on a loose step.” She went to business.

“Yea, she did. Where is this step?” He asked looking up the stairs. She gestured for him to follow her up the stairs. He could hardly take his eyes from her well-formed behind. He had better get his mind out of the gutter. Jerry would have his hide.

“This right here!” She stepped above the it and pointed. Cage sat the bag he was carrying down next to him and began to study the step.

There was something there, that let him know this was no accident. He reached in and pulled out a magnifying glass. Yes, something was there alright, naked to the untrained eye. A small piece of metal. He picked it out with a pair of tweezers he had pulled from his shirt pocket. Then he placed it in a plastic bag.

“What are you doing?” Alondra watched him intensely! He looked up to her.

“You may have termites. He said, trying to throw her off. Alondra stared at him suspiciously.

“You’re a cop aren’t you? Aunt Jerry sent you over because I told her that I felt this was no accident, didn’t she? You‘re undercover huh?” She started in on him. He straighten up and stared at her. She was good. Just like her aunt. Can’t pull anything over her eyes.

“I’m not a cop! She sent me over to safe-proof the house. She wanted to make sure all of you are safe. Okay?” He told her. She continued to stare at him, but taking in what he had said.

“Uh-Huh, okay! But remember. I got my eyes on you.” She turned and walked down the stairs pass him. He inhale and exhale in one motion. This was going to be like working with Jerry, he thought.

“Who are you and what are you doing?” The low deep voice plunge from above him. Cage snapped his head up to green half sleep eyes, staring down at him. He knew he was huge, but this man here was a big one.

“Hello Sir! My name is Cage! Jerry sent me over. She thought you may need a handyman around.” He stood in the middle of the stairwell. Taker walked towards the stairs and started down them, coming to stand above Cage. He’s even larger close up, he thought.

“You say Jerry sent you?” Taker asked, voice a little softer with the mention of her name. Now this is interesting, he thought. The Dad has it for Jerry.

“Yes, Sir! I’m a handyman.” He told him. Taker leaned on the railing, scratching his head.

“She did, did she? Usually my brother and I do the fixing around the place.” Taker paused and looked down at the loose step. His heart slightly sunk. He would have to go to the hospital and take Kane some clothes.

“But I guess we didn’t do a good job after all. We’re wrestlers. Not handymen.” He looked off, still in thought.

“Dad! I see you met Cage! Our new handyman. Aunt........I mean Jerry sent him over.” Alondra caught herself. Taker looked at her a little confused.

“You’re referring to her as Aunt now?” He asked. She shook her head.

“No Dad! I was thinking of Aunt Blair! Aren’t you going to see them today?” She quickly diverted the subject.

“Yeah! I was just thinking I need to get Kane some clothes. You coming with me?” He asked, half going back up the stairs.

“No I think I’ll just stay here and show Cage around the place.” She told him. He turned and gave Cage a ’If you lay one finger on my daughter look.’

“Okay! I’ll give them your love, though.” He said this and left the two.

“WOW! If looks could kill!” Cage said coming down to stand in front of Alondra.

“You would be dead!” Alondra finished, laughing. Cage pointed a finger and shook his head.

“Mind if I be a little nosy?” Cage asked. She looked and went to lean on the stair railing.

“Depends!” She taunted. He furrowed his brows.

“On?” He asked.

“Are you asking as a cop or handyman?” She smiled. He shook his head.

“Neither!” He answered, staring down to her. She has her father’s eyes, he thought. She was pretty tall for a girl. She didn’t get her height from her Aunt. He figured she was about 5’11”.

“What is it your father has against Jerry?” He asked bluntly. Alondra straighten up and looked at him bewildered.

“What makes you think my Father has anything against Jerry? You’re here what like a second and you come to that conclusion, based on what?” She started up to him. He raised his hands in defense.

“Just the way he asked if you were calling her Aunt now> That’s all!” He replied and walked away towards the front door.

“Oh, yeah! That!” She followed him out the door to his truck.

“There’s something going on between them. But it’s complicated.” She leaned against the door of the truck and looked away. He leaned next to her.

“Like what?” He was gaining her confidence.

“Dad has a thing for Jerry.” She started.

“Yeah?” He urged her. She bent down and picked up a pebble and begin to walk away. He followed her.

“My Dad did something so outrageous. He married this woman he only knew for a few days. I can’t stand her. She’s psycho!” She turned and looked at him. He could see she was afraid.

“She scares you doesn’t she?” He asked. She looked at him and for the first time, found someone she could tell everything without having to hold back.

“Yes, she does! There’s something in her eyes. Sinister!” She told him. He nodded his head in approval. Yeah, a lot like her aunt.

Chapter Thirty-One

Taker looked down at the two young people talking. Yeah, he had gave him the look. What else was he suppose to do? But the ugly true is, she’s not a little girl anymore. Even if he scares this one away, there’ll be others when she goes to college in the fall.

And he had to admit. She is a beautiful girl. Thanks to her mother. Yeah, Claire. Hell she wasn’t that much other than Alondra when he met her. And Claire had told him how her sister wasn’t but 16 or 17 years old when she eloped and married some guy old enough to be her father. He had thought for moment., his memory being jogged about Claire’s sister.

“Well I’ll be damned. I had completely forgotten about Claire having a sister. What was that girls name?” He tried to remember. It had been nearly 18 years now. He tried to get in touch with her from letters and numbers in Claire’s things. It was like she had dropped off the face of the earth.

“This brought back memories. I remember Claire saying her sister was pregnant and due about the same time as her. Alondra could have a cousin somewhere. I think I’ll go check in Claire’s stuff in the attic and get that name and hire a private Dick to find her. After I go check on my brother and his wife.” He thought for a while.

“It would be nice to find Claire’s sister and child. What a nice surprise it would be for Alondra?“ He smiled. He turned and went into the bathroom to get ready to go see Kane and Blair.

“Okay! In about an hour will be find.” Jerry said, hanging up the phone. Her attention to the call was diverted from the jeep that spilled into her yard. Jerry stood up at the top of her steps, eyes blazing.

“What is it you want Deidra?” She watched her exit the car and come around to stand below her.

“I thought since I’m now your neighbor we could get to know each other on a more friendly level.” Deidra pulled off her sunglasses, staring at Jerry with her clear blues.

“Really?” She replied. Deidra smiled at her suspicion.

“Really! I don’t have anything against you Jerry! In fact you’re the only one who has been pretty decent to me.” She looked down at the ground.

“I wouldn’t say that. Taker’s been very decent. He married you didn’t he?” Jerry injected. Deidra saw this was not going to be as easy as she had first thought. For some reason Jerry didn’t seemed the perky little thing she had been. She wondered what brought the change.

“Yeah that is true. But Alondra hates me! She hasn’t liked me from day one.” She began to blow her breath on her glasses and wiping them on the rim of her shirt.

“Do you blame her? You married her father after a couple of days.” Jerry snapped. Deidra looked through the glasses and satisfied with how they looked, put them back on. She looked over to Jerry nonchalant.

“Do I note a touch of anger in your voice? Could it be more than Alondra is a little peeved with me?” She said tauntingly.

“Okay! Let’s see here. You’re on my property, which means you’re out of your element. Which means get off!” Jerry had enough of playing with her.

“Well well! Did I ever hit a cord? I’ll get off your land. But tonight when you’re laying in that big empty bed. Remember he’ll be there next to me and other things.” She laughed, turned and walked to the driver’s side of her jeep.

“Oh is that so? You know Deidra! Taker has the softest lips. And the way he kiss. Just makes you melt right in his arms.” Jerry couldn’t help it. Deidra stopped in her tracks. If Jerry could see her eyes, she would have shuddered in fear. She turned away from Jerry and got into her Jeep and drove away like a mad person. Jerry flopped down on porch step. Holding her head between her hands. She shouldn’t have done that. This wasn’t good. She had allowed her emotions to get into the way once again. She just signed her death certificate.

“Taker! I’m glad you came. Um, can I talk to you?” Kane looked up and watched his brother come into the room. Then seeing Blair sleeping, escorted him from the room.

“Sure! What’s up?” Taker was a little bewildered by how his brother was acting.

“I don’t know how to say this!” Kane paced nervously back and forth in front of his brother. Until Taker had enough and grabbed him be the arm, bringing to a abrupt halt.

“What is going on Kane? Is Blair? Is it the Baby?” Taker grew anxious. Kane shook his head.

“NO! They’re fine. It’s Deidra!” Kane said. Taker’s eyes narrowed.

“What about her?” Taker folded his arms across his chest eyes fixed on his brother.

“I think she tried to kill Blair!” He just let it out. Taker’s eyes enlarged!

Chapter Thirty-Two

Jerry walked into the house, after long thought of what had just happened between Deidra and herself. She knew it wasn’t a very good idea to anger this psycho. But she hit a nerve with the fact she was married to Taker and not her.

More of that fact, she had been intimate with him and not her. She didn’t want to even think about what went on between them. She could only imagine from what her sister had told her about him.

And the flow of electricity between the two of them. Not to mention the kiss. Which she in a moment of anger, blurted out to Deidra. She knew she would have to be extra careful. Her life was at stake now.

She made her way over to the files she was now able to leave about since Alondra had moved back home. She opened it and began to read. It painted a nice picture of the woman known as the Black Widow. She preyed on very wealthy men, getting them to marry her.

After some months of marriage, the men mysteriously died. It wasn’t until 6 months ago that finally they had a lead in this case which had gone on for like 2 years. Jerry was the one who broke it. It was the telegram she received that her former husband had died in a freak accident.

Jerry came back from overseas to attend his funeral. She stayed with his sister. She loved to talk. She told her how James met this young woman somewhere, she didn’t know exactly and how they had this whirlwind love affair and got married.

It was something strange about this woman she felt. Her eyes were cynical. They didn’t hit it off. She was told she was no longer welcome in their home. The sister felt she had sabotaged the relationship between her brother and her. Three months later. He was dead.

Fair enough. He was getting up in age. But the strange part was how he died. It was said he had come back from a long trip and was taking a bathe when the radio fell in the tub, electrocuting. Jerry felt something wasn’t right as the sister relayed to her the events leading up to and causing his death.

The day of the funeral, the wife was incognito. She came into the funeral dressed in black dress, hat with veil covering her face, gloves shoes and silk stockings. Afterwards she went to the graveside. Everyone went to the house and socialized. It was strange. She never removed her veil. So a good look at her was impossible. After that she disappeared.

The house was sold immediately. Everything James owned went to this woman. A small portion of it was left to his sister, courtesy of the wife. His sister didn’t complain. It set her up for the rest of her life. What was left of it.

What gave them the lead were two things. A description of the woman Jerry didn’t get to see. Tall and slender. Long blonde hair. Which Jerry could see. And crystal clear blue eyes. That she hid behind the veil.

The other was the fact Jerry had been married to James. So she knew his quirks. And sitting in the bathtub with any electrical was impossible. He was terrified of being shocked to death. So it was a rule in their home. That’s when Jerry pulled the files on the Black Widow.

She did some heavy research on this woman. She became obsess with catching her and bringing her to justice. Not for James sake, but for the other men she had killed. She tracked her down like three months ago. She had been away on some tropical island. She made her way back to the states. She figured if she was back in the states, she had picked out her next victim.

A surveillance was put on her. She was followed to a big estate in Tennessee. Jerry did a background check on who owned the place. She discovered it was a elderly big time businessman that lived there. She felt maybe this was someone whose life may be in danger. He fitted the profile of her victims. Old and rich!

They caused the phones to disconnect and sent in a crew to fix it. Or rather tap the lines and bug the place. Yeah, yeah! Illegal! But necessary. What she found out was. This was her father. Finally a name to the mysterious woman. She ran a check on her and found she had been institutionalized at the age of twenty. Stayed for four years.

She never went back to her father’s house. He didn’t want her there. The mother had died around the time she had been sent to the sanitarium. May be the reason for the insanity?

A conversation between the father and a close friend concerning her coming to work for him. Something about a magazine they wanted to put out next year with some of his employees. Wrestlers! Deidra had taken up photography among other things. She could be an good access to the company. The World Wrestling Entertainment.

She went to Connecticut, meeting with the owner Vince McMahon. Her Godfather and close friend of the father. It seems she’s been spoiled all her life. Getting and taking whatever she wanted. She didn’t need the money, so why did she murder these men and take their money?

From the conversation, Deidra asked a lot of questions about the likes and dislikes of each wrestler. Which was normal. But there was one in particular she linger on. She went in depth with knowing about him. She also suggested he be the first on the list, even though Vince had him down lower. Not thinking of it, he allowed her to do this her way. She did.

Jerry ran an investigation on this wrestler. He was known as the Undertaker of the WWE! Aka the Phenom, Deadman, ABA(American Badass), Big Evil and LOD(Lord of Darkness). But everyone calls him Taker. She had a picture of him sent to her, feeling he was going to be her next casualty. She found out where he lived. This is where everything came to light.

Jerry went over the information of him and discovered something that nearly made her heart jump right out of her chest. Everything about him lead to another investigation she was conducting. A one a little more personal. Trying to find her sister’s husband and the niece she never got to see.

He had changed his name and gone into a different profession. Wrestling. That’s why she came to an dead end. She was using the name her sister had given her, Mark! And where they lived was in another state. So she kept trying Mark in that state, leading to nowhere. Until now! Right under her nose.

She had wanted to buy her old land back for years. Her sister had put the idea in her head. They had decided to buy the land back. She lived on one half and her sister on the other. They never discussed it again. That’s when all hell broke loose.

Finally some luck came her way. The person who had owned it all these years died and his widow wanted to sell it. She was moving out of town and going to live with her daughter. The realtor called Jerry and sold her the place.

She found out the other part of the land had been owned by two brothers for the last eighteen years. She decided she wouldn’t bother them. The important part, the one with their old house, she owned. That was good enough.

This is when she put names and faces together. When his picture came to her, she took out the one with her sister and her husband. She felt heart nearly jumped out of her chest. Here they were. Fate had a way of stepping in at the most opportune time. This was its way of helping her save the family she been searching for all these year. From the venom of a Black Widow.

Chapter Thirty-Three

“What the Hell!” Taker yelled at his brother. Kane tried to get him to lower his voice. He watched as people passed by them looking at them strangely.

“Taker! Man, calm down. We’re in a hospital!” Taker looked around him, realizing he had amplified his voice a little more than needed, nodded his head.

Kane took a quick peek in Blair’s room, to see if she was still sleep. Out like a newborn. Then he pointed down the hallway and headed down it, Taker close behind. Exited out a door into a garden area.

“Look Taker, hear me out! I’m not just talking out of my head!”

“Okay! I’m going to try and be calm here, Bro’! What do you mean you think Deidra tried to kill Blair? I ain’t liking what you’re saying!” Taker walked over to a table and bench. Kane followed, choosing his words carefully.

Jerry closed the file she had just went over. She anticipated the visit with Deidra’s father and get the information on why she was institutionalized several years ago. She looked up hearing the taxi cab she had called honking out front. She ran to the door, waving at him to acknowledge she knew he was there. Then she went back in and gathered her things. She gave the place one good sweep and darted out the door, locking it behind her. She jumped in the cab and made her way to the airport. Destination Tennessee!

Deidra was returning to Jerry’s place. She didn’t like their last encounter. Somehow she had to mend the damaged done earlier. Her plan still stood, but after being one on one with her and no one around. She could see that Jerry was more than some plane Jane walking around on a ranch. Maybe that’s what Taker saw in her.

There was more to her then meets the eye. Sparking an interest to find out what it was that, intrigued her. Jerry was a mystery she wanted to solve. And that was something she liked. She was driving and thinking, when she saw the taxi pulling into the path to Jerry’s.

She parked a ways off, deciding this was a even better opportunity. She would get in her house while she was a way and find out what her likes and dislikes. You can tell by the way your house is furniture, the dishes and food you eat. And the clothes you wear, more like the underwear. She watched as the taxi pulled out of the rode and headed towards town. When she felt it was safe, drove into the path to Jerry’s home.

“I called Vince last night and told him everything that happened.” Kane paused waiting for his brother’s reaction. He just stared at him. Kane shrugged his shoulder.

“I also mention your marriage to Deidra!” Kane braced himself for the explosion. Taker took a small walk in a circle, arms folded across his chest. Then he turned to his brother.

“How did he take that little info?” He asked. Kane took a deep breath and looked at his brother.

“Oh! That well huh?” Taker slightly chuckled. He loved getting under Vince’s skin, even if it wasn’t intentionally. Kane sat down on a bench, replaying the strange conversation with Vince.

“Actually Taker! He’s the one who confirmed my suspicions.” Kane’s eyes crept towards his brother. Taker stared down to him, seeing the worry in his eyes.

“What?” Taker asked. Kane looked down at the ground, then back up to him.

“I don’t think Blair isn’t the only person who’s in danger here.” Kane said to him. Taker slowly walked over to his brother and took a sit down. He felt he was going to need it.

Deidra made sure no one else was about, then jimmied with the back door lock and unlocked it, letting herself in. She slowly strolled through the house checking things out. She looked in the refrigerator, noting what Jerry liked to eat. In her cabinets, seeing her taste in dishes.

Then she went right through the living room, admiring her taste in furniture, then she headed for the most important place in the house. The bedroom. That’s where her interests lied the most. If Taker was so into her, there has to be something there.

She looked over the top of the dresser. Very good taste in perfume and cologne. A expensive exotic taste at that. Jerry was undercover. She was simple on the outside, but definitely something she would like to explore on the inside. In more ways than one.

She rumbled through her drawers, looking at her undies. She could see she was into thongs, lace of all colors. She picked up a pair and closed her eyes, rubbing them over her cheek. She felt an instant arousal pass through her. Her breathing became slow and deep. Her heart was increasing in its pace. Her eyes darkened with passion.
Jerry’s taste of under attire proves she was a sexual kitten underneath.

Deidra’s mind went back to how her voice sounded, when she described the kiss shared between Taker and her. He had brought out that sensual side she had tried to hide under that rough cowgirl. She wasn’t that bad looking either. Short and sweet, with a nice little bod to go along with it.

Hey! if she was a man she’d do her, she thought to herself. Forget the man part, she would do her anyway, as an after thought. She smiled and went over to her neatly made bed. Silk bedding. Yeah, she was something you would want to get under these sheets and turn everyway but loose.

She laid out on the bed, rolling about, trying to get Jerry all over her body. And to leave hers for her to lie in. She began to daydream of making love to Jerry. She felt herself become wet with the pleasure of the thought.

“When I told him about the marriage, he said he knew. Josh had just checked in with him on how the shoot was going. Told him about everything. He said he was just getting ready to call me and see how Blair was.” Kane stood and walked over to a window and stared at people walking by.

“Oh like he even gave a damn about any of us or our families!” Taker huffed. Kane turned to his brother.

“Did Deidra ever tell you about her marriage six months ago?” Kane dropped the bombshell. And from the expression covering his brother’s face, he never knew.

Deidra gather herself and left the bed satisfied for the moment. Looking forward to the real deal. She went back towards the living room. She will wait for Jerry’s return and make the dream a reality.

Chapter Thirty-Four

“Married? Are you sure?” Taker couldn’t believe his ears. Kane nodded.

“Vince said when Josh had phoned him, he called his friend before the news got back to him. He wasn’t very happy.” Kane let Taker know this before he continued.

“Okay, I understand that!” Taker was more interested about the previous marriage rather than her father’s reaction to theirs.

“It seems she met this older guy while overseas or something. I don’t know wasn’t really interested.” Kane started. Taker gestured for him to go on, he wasn’t interested on how they met either. Both should have been, it played a vital information of the danger this woman imposed.

“Anyways, after a three month courtship they married. He a month he had to go on some business trip for a few weeks.” Kane told him. Taker took a seat, listening with all ears.

“Okay!” Taker said. Kane came to sit across from him and leaned in. Taker leaned also, he knew it was something Kane didn’t want to say just between the two of them.

“Here’s the killer, no pun intended. The very day he came back from his trip, he died in the tub from a freak accident.” Kane said with lowered voice. Taker sat back, placing his hand on his forehead. Kane nodded.

“Dare I ask?” Taker finally said.

“The radio somehow fell in the tub, frying him.” Kane sat back after saying this and staring at his brother. Taker sat there for a moment, unable to speak.

“Accident? What is she? A jinx or worst?” Taker finally found his voice.

She sat down, looking at her watch. She wondered how long Jerry would be gone. She was longing for her to come back. She opened her purse and took out the bottle and handkerchief. She would get her as she came in the door. She smiled in thought. It has been a long time since she felt for someone in this way.

Except for Taker! She still wanted him. But you got to have a back up plan. He wasn’t feeling her like he use to. And the reason was Jerry. So since Jerry has changed his feelings. How ironic it is to change Jerry’s feeling for him. And that she will do. Little Jerry will mysteriously disappear. No one will know her whereabouts. Except for her. Maybe she would leave a nice little note. Yeah, that would be a better idea, She thought.

A note to Taker, explaining how deeply in love she was with him and couldn’t deal with the thought of him being married to me. She laughed within. Then of course who will he turn to. His loving wife who would be there with open arms.

But no one will know I will have her locked away. He will belong to me alone. The best of both worlds. A loving husband and my little sex toy. She leaned back into the sofa, convinced in her dwarfed mind this planned will become an reality.

“There’s more!” Kane told his brother. Taker bent at the waist and picked up something off the ground.

“Go ahead! Might as well tell me everything.” Taker looked at his brother.

“The man had money. Everything went to her! She went away for a while, dropped out of sight. Finally one day shows up on Daddy’s door step. Some big time business man. Of course he would be. He’s Vince’s friend. But what she doesn’t know is, Daddy sent out an private detective to find her. He knows all about the marriage and everything else that happened.” Kane laid it out before his brother.

Deidra was too excited to sit. She left stood up and looked around the room for something to read, radio or something. That’s when her eyes fell on the files Jerry had left on the table by the window. She walked over and took a seat in the chair next to the window and table.

She sat back and crossed a leg over the other. She took the files and saw they were named. She came to one with Black Widow. It struck her interest more than any others. She placed them back on the table and began to look through it. She began to read it. The first page was about her marriage to James.

“So if the father has suspicions about the marriage and the man’s death. Why did he send her to Vince to work and be around so many people?” Taker asked.

“Dad said he got an call from some person in the FBI a few days ago. She wanted to come and talk to him about Deidra and her past. That’s when he had her investigated. Vince felt there was more to it that his old friend wasn’t saying. Anyways he has put the magazine shoot on hold. Deidra’s out.!” Kane sat back and watched his brother digest everything.

“Yeah, she’s out in more ways than one! I better get back home. No telling what accident may have happened!” Taker and Kane stared at each other. Something unspoken went between them. Then Taker left. Kane sighed silently and said a little prayer for his family.

Chapter Thirty-Five

Jerry sat in her seat, thumbing through some notes she had wrote out and questions she wanted to ask Deidra’s father. She had tried to get some information from the institution but without an court order that was a no go. And without enough concrete evidence she killed James and the others, she wasn’t getting it.

Her mind went back to the day Alondra and her came up on Taker kissing her. She saw the rage in her eyes when Taker tried to console his daughter. And this morning afternoon when she came to visit and she told her about the kiss shared between her and Taker. She knew then she was marked. Deidra will stop at nothing to see her out of their lives. She wondered what will be her next move.

Deidra finished with the part about James and her. Then she flipped that page coming to another person who had come and left her life. She tilted her head to the side, flipping another after another. This was a file about her and her dead husbands. All four of them. She was named the Black Widow. But what was Jerry doing with this information and what was she planning to do with it?

“It doesn’t matter what she had planned. As of this moment they are null and void. My plan overrules.” She sat the file on the others, with a greater determination to see her plan through. After all she hasn’t failed yet.

Jerry’s plane landed. She walked through the terminal and coming to the curb to hail down a taxi. She there was information much needed to help her investigation of Deidra. The missing pieces were her stay in the institution.

Why was she there?

This may prove to be vital information, if her families safety were to be assured. And the only living person who could share that information is Deidra’s Dad. Since all his employees were clueless to what happened the night in question. Strangely, they had all be given the night off.

Jerry’s cab drove into the driveway of the huge estate. Normally the gates would be closed and an access code would be needed to enter or someone opened it via electronically. But Jerry was expected.

The cab pulled up in front of the car, where the Butler came out to open her door. She thanked him and paid the cabbie. The Butler informed her that Mr. Elliott was waiting for her in his study. She followed the Butler as they made their way through the grand home.

“Ms. Paine, Sir!” He announced. Then turned and walked out. Behind the huge oak desk sitting in a expensive leather brown chair, was an ancient man. Much too old to be Deidra’s father. But then hey, who knows. Little did she know the man was younger than his looks. The aging process was brought on by years of anguish and illness.

“Hello Ms. Paine! Have a seat.” He spoke to her and with hand gestured to a very comfortable matching leather couch. She took a seat as offered. By that time a maid came in with some refreshments. Sat down on a table next to Mr. Elliott.

“Would you like anything? I know you have to be famish after that long trip on the airplane.” He said something very low to the maid who, quickly left the room.

“Yeah I am by the way.” She affirmed his observation. The Butler came back in with some pill bottles and sat them on the desk. He turned to Jerry.

“What would you like, Ms. Paine?” He asked, preparing things on the table.

“Just some fruit and cheese, thank you.” She told him. He nodded to her. he prepared her plate and handed it to her. Mr. Elliott was popping pills. She noted this. Something helpful in her interview with him later.

“I noticed you are staring at the many pills I am taking. They are what keeps me alive.” He told her, finishing the last bottle. The butler sat Mr. Elliott’s plate before him and took the bottles away, leaving the two to talk.

Jerry took a few bites of the plate give to her and sat it down on a small table at her side. She wiped her hands with a napkin, then picked up the binder she had sat aside. She began to ramble through it and pulled out a notepad. Mr. Elliott sat back in his chair, seeing as the interview was about to began.

“Mr. Elliott! I need to start the investigation.” She looked at him. He hadn’t ate anything. He seemed quite out of it. Jerry hoped he didn’t get to sick to give her the information she needed.

“No Ms. Paine. I don’t mind at all. In fact I welcome the chance to get this load off my chest.” He told her. Jerry picked up on some relief in this man’s voice.

“Okay! I need to bring up something of the distant past. The time Deidra was institutionalized. He pressed his head back into the soft leather chair, recalling the night in question.

“Oh yes! That night my world fell apart. The night she killed my beautiful loving wife. Her mother!” He said sadly. Jerry nearly dropped the pad.

Chapter Thirty-Six

Alondra had followed Cage around the ranch. He wanted to make sure there were no unexpected traps laid about. Alondra watched him intensely. The more she watched the more she was convinced he was more than and handyman.

“You know Cage! I’m not as stupid as you thing!” She walked beside him, as they headed for the house. He had finished his survey of the property. He looked down at her, knowing what she was thinking.

“Why Alondra! What makes you think I think you’re stupid. No at all! In fact I think you’re a very intelligent girl!” He answered her. She stopped in her tracks, looking down at the ground as if searching for something.

“In the words of a good friend. No you didn’t just say that! Tell me you didn’t just say that!” She looked up to him with a finger pointed in the air and her neck moving like a crane. He stepped back realizing what he had just called her.

“Okay! I’m sorry! Let me correct myself. Young Woman!” he raised both hands in the air! She began to laugh.

“Thank you!” She said and started towards the house. Just then the roar of her father’s bike came through loud and clear as he sped into the yard and into the garage. She stopped and listen as it went silent. Then as he walked quickly out.

“What’s wrong Dad?” She asked, seeing him so tensed.

“Where’s Deidra?” Is all he said passing her and walking with purpose towards the house. Alondra looked over to Cage who was watching Taker with great interest.

“She’s gone! She left this morning and haven’t been heard from since.” She told him. He stopped at the top of the steps, then turning his head back to the two young people.

“You two been here alone all this time?” Is all he said, staring an hole in Cage. Cage nervously shifted from one foot to the other. Alondra walked up to her father.

“DAD! Nothing happened. Cage is a perfect gentlemen. Besides he is to work oriented. Like you!” She said with a frown as she looked down at Cage. He stared back at her blankly. He wouldn’t dare revealed what he had been thinking all day.

“Good! Glad to hear that. Let’s hope he continues to be. I have to leave again. I need to find Deidra!” He said with urgency in his voice.

“What’s going on Dad?” She asked, following him into the house. He stopped and turned to her, then looked to Cage.

“Can I trust you to look out for my daughter. You seem like a decent young man. Don’t prove me wrong. But I don’t want Deidra near her. You get me?” He gave Cage an look. Being the good FBI that he is, he knew Taker had found something out about Deidra.

“You’re not wrong, Sir! She’s in good hands!” He assured him. Taker nodded and ran upstairs. he went in his room and began to rumble through things. Alondra walked in and watching him rip the room apart.

“Dad! What is it?” She asked again. he walked pass her and began tossing things out of the drawers.

“Nothing for you to worry about.” He told her. Then he stopped, stroking his goatee.

“I’m looking for.......Oh! I know!” He said and ran out of the room and headed for the cellar. He paused for a moment at the door. he rubbed his hand over it as memories shot through him. Alondra walked up behind him and placed a gentle hand on his arm. Looked down to her with wet eyes.

“What I need is up there!” He looked back at the door.

“Want me to go with you?” She asked.

“No! I’m okay!” He patted her hand and opened the door. He looked up the stairs and slowly ascended them. Alondra watched him go up and disappear.

He looked around at all the stuff of Claire’s. Getting distracted for the reason he had come up there in the first place. He went to her chest and opened it. He rumbled through it, coming an envelope. He sat down and pulled out the photos. He thumbed though them until he came to one he hadn’t seen before.

He stared hard and long, not sure he was seeing what he was seeing. He jumped to his feet and tossing the others back into the chest, ran back down stairs. Alondra went down to Cage and was talking to him when she heard what she thought was a stampede coming towards them.

“Alondra! Look! Tell me I’m not seeing what I’m seeing!” He came flying down the stairs and handed her the picture. She looked it over, paused then looked at her Dad! He was too excited, but curious to why she wasn’t. He slightly tilted his head, then he recalled something. He slapped his head and walked away.

“Dad!” She started. He swirled around on her.

“How long have you known?” He snapped. Alondra felt the tears swelling in her eyes.

“Just yesterday! I was going to tell you, but you hit me with the news of your marriage.” She said softly, looking at the picture.

“So calling her Auntie, wasn’t an mistake. Now was it?” He asked sternly. Alondra looked up in her father’s eyes, seeing something in them she thought she would never see. Betrayal!

“No Daddy!” She said as she began to cry!” He gave her one last hard stare then headed out the door.

“Daddy please!” She screamed after him. She new where he was going. Jerry’s!

Chapter Thirty-Seven

“Daddy stop! Listen to me!” Alondra ran out after her father, catching his arm and struggled to stop him from making the biggest mistake in his life. No, second. Deidra would be the first.

“Let me go Alondra!” He pulled his arm from her. She nearly fell to the ground from the force. Cage had witness everything and felt this was a good time to intervene.

“Umm, Sir!” he called to Taker, who instantly turned around to glare at him. Cage felt a knot catch in his throat, causing him to clear it.

“You don’t have nothing I want to hear!” He growled. Cage stepped up towards him. But keeping a distance.

“Sorry Sir! But I do!” He said. Taker eyes narrowed, as he started towards Cage. This one time he was glad he had his FBI training. He may need it before this was over.

“Deidra killed her Mother?” Jerry asked, shocked at the statement. He took a sip of water and took a deep breath. His eyes went to Jerry, without moving his head.

“She might as well have. Her mother loved her so much. She was an only child. My Wife spoiled her rotten. She always wanted whatever she saw and her mother made sure she had it.” He paused, as his mind brought back memories.

“Alright!” She responded. Glad to know she wasn’t that deranged. But understanding her a little more.

“Then the day came when she started school, being around other children. She would take from the other kids, things they had that she wanted. Her mother spent many nights trying to explain to her she can’t take things from other people. That’s where we had our problem. The concept never registered in her mind.” Mr. Elliott paused once again.

Jerry wrote down all of this. Clearly getting the vital information she needed. She’s sees what she wants and with any regards, takes it. It explains Taker! She set her eyes and calculated a plan to get him. Jerry could see he was trying. Not sure if it was illness, age or just the face he was tired of life itself.

“There was a incident at an school outing. A little girl was nearly drowned. She might as well had died that day, she’s a living vegetable.” He drifted off. Jerry shifted in her chair. She didn’t like this at all.

“Deidra?” She asked. He looked to the seeing then closed his eyes.

“Forgive me if this takes some time to tell. It just brings back so many painful memories.” He explained to Jerry.

“No I understand. Take as long as you need.” Jerry said sympathetic.

“Everyone thought it was an accident. But some reported seeing Deidra arguing with the girl over this beautiful ring she had been showing off at school one day. She seemed to have worn it on that day and Deidra may have attempted to take it from her. Causing the little girl to slip off into the water. Nothing was proved.” He said.

“Okay, so why do you seem to have doubts?” She asked, sensing something in his voice.

“The ring wasn’t on the little girl’s finger when she was taking form the water. They felt it may have fallen off in the water.” He said.

“But you have your doubts.” She stated. His eyes fell on her.

“I have proof!” He said. Jerry stared blankly. He pulled his desk drawer open and pulled out a small envelope, offering it to Jerry. She left her seat and took it. Then she opened it and empty the contents in her hand. A small ring fell out. It sent an emotion of fear through her. If she was so cold as a child. What has she evolved into now.

“What is it you got to say to me, Boy?” Taker was up in his face, causing him to back up a step. Cage stared him in his eyes.

“It seems you have a problem with your daughter not revealing something. Yet, you hit her with something she wasn’t able to deal with. Now you’re angry at her for that, while she has forgiven you for what you have done. You’re the father here, she’s the child. Don’t leave her hanging like this!” Cage said and braced himself for the impact. Taker stood with his hands on his hips, not saying a word. Eyeballing Cage. Then after what seemed like an eternity, he turned to gaze on his daughter.

“We have some talking to do! Privately!” He said to her, then staring down Cage. The two went into the house. Cage finally allowed the breath he was holding to exhale. He was relieved they had elected to talk among themselves. He had to contact Jerry. He had some concerns. Deidra and her whereabouts!

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Jerry stood there, stunned. There it was right in her face. A little girl’s ring. One whose life was taking away by a selfish little child, who didn’t understand she couldn’t have everything she wanted.

“Where did you get this?” She asked, fighting back her emotions. He turned away.

“My wife found it years later. The night Deidra was sent to the institution.” He told her, continuing to look out the double glassed windows.

“A child’s life was destroyed! Years later, your wife finds the ring that could have given the little girl’s family some closure. And all you do is put her in some sanitarium?” Jerry felt her feeling getting uncontrollable.

“Not exactly. My wife confronted her. I was just getting in from a business trip when I heard them going at it. Of course I went to see what the commotion was about. That’s when I was informed by my wife what she had discovered.” He looked back to Jerry. Jerry said nothing, trying to gather herself. These outbreaks will serve no purpose. Now she knows who and what she was dealing with. A definite home raised psychopath.

“Deidra begged her not to tell me! She was furious with her mother. She called her every name in the book. I got so enraged at her disrespect for the only person who loved her more than anything in life. Including me. I raised my hand and brought it down across her face. She fell back over her bed. The look she gave me as I told her about herself and how much this woman loved her.” He paused again. Jerry thought she heard him sniffle. She couldn’t tell. He had his back to her.

“That’s when I knew what we had spawned. She sat there quiet for a few moments. We thought she was digesting this whole situation. Then she looked over to her mother. She rose to her feet and walked to her. Putting her arms around her. Her mother began to cry and held her daughter tenderly. I saw it before my wife felt it. She had a letter opener in her hand, we hadn’t seen it in her hand. She lifted it up and came down. I was quicker in those days. It hit me in the arm, as I shoved my wife from harms way. She came down to hit me once again, when she was shoved into the wall with great force. Funny thing about a mother’s love. It’s very unpredictable.” He turned to stare at Jerry!

“So that’s when you felt it was an suitable decision to get rid of the menace to society?” Jerry wasn’t feeling anything but contempt for him at this moment, as she held the little ring in her hand. Mr. Elliott stared long and hard at Jerry! Young and thinks she knows everything.

“Ms. Paine! You are not as knowledgeable as you think. I suggest you sit there and listen to what I have to say, without the smart remarks!” He said to her calmly. Jerry sat back in her chair and crossed one leg over the other. She felt the urge to give him a come back, but thought better of it.

“You’re right Mr. Elliott! It’s more important I hear what you have to say. So much is counting on it!” She told him.

“Not only pretty, but smart too. As I knew when you first contacted me. Now where was I?” He said, leaning back in his chair and staring into the ceiling.

“A shove into the wall by your wife!” Jerry couldn’t help herself. His eyes shot towards her for a moment, then back to the ceiling.

“Yes! We locked her in her room, sending the staff away for the night. Then we called in a Doctor friend of mine. I told him everything. I knew he would keep it confidential. He owned this little quaint sanitarium out of town. It’s a very upscale and secluded place. No one but the very elite knows of it. Many of the go there to get cleaned out from drugs and other things.” He explained to Jerry. She was now kicking her leg up and down. A nervous thing she does when trying to control her anger.

She began to write things downs It was clearly a fact that a child’s life had been diminished due to Deidra’s uncontrollable need to take things she wants. Even if they belong to others. And she has no love for her parents either. She tried to kill her mother. Which brings her to the next question.

“You said Deidra was responsible for her mother’s death. How so?” She looked up from the notepad. He sat there still as a statue, pondering. He leaned in on the desk once again and stared Jerry the eyes. She could see his eyes glistening.

“After that night. Her mother soon became ill. She wouldn’t eat or drank. Finally I had to have a home nurse come in. IV’s were started for dehydration and nutritional reasons. But that didn’t help. She lasted seven months and died. Her willed to live gone. She never got over the child she had brought into this world, tried to take her out of it.” He turned away and left his chair for the first time.

He walked over to the double doors and opened them, walking out into the fresh air into the beautiful garden. Jerry watched him and went to follow, when he without warning fell to the ground like a fallen leaf. Jerry ran to him and grabbed his upper portion into her arms, holding him gently.

“Mr. Elliott! Are you alright Sir?” She asked frantically. He gazed into her eyes.

“You are a beautiful young woman. If I had a wish, I would have wished for a decent daughter as yourself. But you have to play with the hand dealt you. I don’t have much time, so listen to me well. In my desk is a large yellow envelope. I put it there for you alone. Get it and then call my Butler. Go! Save that young man who my daughter has married. His life isn’t worth two cents to her. Especially when she finds something or someone else she wants.” He said to her, catching his breath in between gasps.

She gently laid him down and ran to the door, calling for help. The Butler came instantly. He came up to her and stared bewildered. She pointed to the double doors. His eyes followed her finger and saw Mr. Elliott lying on the ground. He quickly ran to him and gather him up in his arms, carrying him to the sofa and laid him on it. He took a blanket and covered him.

Then he went to the phone and called 9-1-1! Jerry stood helplessly. She felt she had brought this on. Bringing up too many painful memories. The Butler went back to his side. Mr. Elliott was trying to tell him something. He knelt down by the sofa and listen. Then he looked up to Jerry, rose and went over to the desk, pulling out the large envelope.

“Mr. Elliott wants you to go now. Take this! It will help you greatly.” He told her, handing her the envelope. She took it then looked over to Mr. Elliott.

“Will he be alright?” She asked, looking from the Butler to Mr. Elliott!

“Yes, Ms. Paine! He has made his peace. Now only if you can finish it for him.” He said, staring into her eyes. She caught what he was saying.

She went over to Mr. Elliott! His eyes were closed and he was barely breathing. She could hear the sirens in the distance. She gather her things, turned and left him to his peace.

Chapter Thirty-Nine

“Wow! That’s an interesting story. That’s why I couldn’t contact her. She was in the hospital, recovering form an accident and losing her child. I guess after all this time, it would seem she wasn’t sure how to tell us.” Taker listen quietly as his daughter relayed how she found out Jerry was her aunt. At that time Kane walked into the room. Taker looked up at his brother and immediately jumped to his feet.

“What’s going on Kane?” He asked, fearing something had happened.

“Nothing! Calm down! Blair woke up and told me to get my butt back here and check on you two. And not wanting to upset her. Here I am!” He said, waving Taker down.

“Okay! I don’t need anymore shocks today!” Taker let out a long hard sigh. Alondra ran up to her Uncle and hugged him tightly.

“You want me to go stay with Aunt Blair?” She asked. Kane held hit niece for dear life. Little did they know he wanted to be there. Blair could always tell when he was tensed and told him to go.

“I think that would be a very good idea. It would ease her mind, seeing you.” He looked down at her smiling face. She lifted up on her toes and gave him a peck on the cheek, then ran over and did the same to her father. She took off upstairs to change. Kane looked over to Taker, who watched her disappear out of sight.

“Okay! What do you mean by another shock? And now that I notice, where is Deidra?” He asked Taker. Taker took a deep breath before telling his brother about Jerry!

“Damn Jerry! Where are you that you don’t have your cell phone with you?” Cage was trying to get in touch with Jerry! He needed to tell her about what was going on there. But mostly, that Deidra was AWOL!

“I’m surprise you didn’t pick up the resemblance from the start! I noticed it right off, but didn’t know Claire had a sister.” Kane sat across from his brother as Taker explained. Taker looked at him stunned.

“You saw it?” He asked and shook his head. Why hadn’t he?

“Yeah! So did you and Alondra! Why do you two think you were so swept away by her. You saw Claire but didn’t know it.“ Kane explained. Taker thought for a few moments, then nodded his head. Yeah, she was a lot like her sister.

“You’re right. I saw it but didn’t see it.” He said, then began to get antsy. He looked at his watch.

“I wonder where Deidra went off to?” Taker looked at his brother who shrugged.

“I’m not sure, but I bet she’s up to no good!” Kane said. Taker looked at him and then something in his gut made him jump to his feet.

“Jerry?” He yelled. Kane sprung up and looked at Taker. Then they both ran towards the door, nearly knocking over Cage as he was coming towards the house still trying to call Jerry!

“Hey! You can leave anytime you want! Alondra is going to the hospital to be with her aunt.” Taker stopped and turned to Cage who was wondering where’s the fire!

“Okay! Is everything alright?” He asked. Taker paused, wondering if he should tell Cage.

“We’re going over to Jerry’s. She may need help!” Taker told him. Cage stiffen. Did they know something he didn’t?

“What do you mean?” He was wondering if something had indeed happened since he couldn’t get in touch with her.

“I haven’t see my wife all day. We feel she may have gone over to Jerry! They don’t care for each other.” Taker decided to tell him since he was a close friend of Jerry’s.

“Oh okay! You had me worried! Jerry told me this morning she would be going out of town and probably won’t be back to the morning sometime. So I doubt if your wife is there.” He explained to them. All they needed is a bunch of amateurs interfering with the case.

“Really? Kinda sudden don’t you think?” Taker was wondering what she was up to.

“I have no idea of what her mind frame is Sir! I only did some handy work for her.” Cage’s attempt to throw off they were close. Taker’s eyes narrowed.

“I don’t either. I guess she’s just a secretive person. Well, anyway Alondra won’t be here. So you’re free to go.” Taker headed back towards the house, followed by Kane. Who stared Cage down. Cage turned away from him, looking up in the sky. If another oversized wrestler give him a look today, he was going to give them a good old butt whooping. FBI style.

“Who’s the young guy?” Kane backed in the house still staring at his back.

“Some guy Jerry sent over to look the house over. She didn’t want anymore accidents.” At that moment Alondra came bounding down the stairs.

“So you met Cage, huh Uncle Kane?” She smiled brightly. Taker was thinking when he her tune. He turned to look at her. Kane tilted his head. They both looked at each other then her. And at the same time let out a deep breath.

“Sir! If you don’t mind, I think I’ll tag along with Alondra! Never can be too safe!” He suggested. Taker and Kane’s heads turn towards Cage coming into the house. Taker pondered for a moment. If they hadn’t done anything all day. He was sure they wouldn’t be doing much now.

“Sure! I’ll feel better if someone rode into town with her.” Taker nodded. Kane continued to stare at him, minded his manners.

“I’m Kane! They Uncle!” He walked over to him with extended hand. Cage took it and felt the strong grip and small pressure as an warning.

“Cage!” He said taking what Kane was giving.

“Come on Cage! I’m anxious to see me Aunt! You two can play the macho game later.” She said coming between her Uncle and Cage.

“Alondra! Did Jerry mention about going out of town to you?” Taker asked.

“No not a word! Maybe it was a spur of the moment thing. You know with everything that was going on.” She said, then grabbed Cage’s hand and lead him out the house. Kane walked to the door and stared out, watching them get into the SUV.

“Our little girl is growing up!” Kane said sadly as the SUV disappeared. Taker smiled and shook his head at his brother.

“Growing? More like Grown!” He informed his brother. He saw Kane’s chest rise and fall. Then he turned away and sat down near the phone. Where could Jerry had gone without telling anyone, except her handyman? Maybe Alondra is right.

He picked up the phone and called Vince. He owed him after sending that demona to his house. He asked him some pertinent questions. He got the information he needed. He hung it up and sat back in the chair. Kane had come in on his conversation and sat down listening.

“What is it Taker? You have that far away confused look.” Kane said. Taker looked over to his brother.

“Didn’t you tell me Deidra’s father got a called from some FBI person who wanted to ask him some questions about Deidra?” Taker asked. Kane nodded his head, wondering what has this got to do with Jerry.

“The FBI agent. You said she!” Taker reminded his brother.

“Yeah! That’s what Vince said.” Kane not sure where this was all leading.

“I pretended to be looking for my agent that had been there to question Deidra’s father. He said Ms. Paine had left sometime ago!” Taker informed his brother.
“Ms. Paine?” Kane said. Taker nodded.

“That’s Jerry’s last name.” Taker told him. Kane thought, then his mouth flew open! Taker nodded.

“You thinking what I’m thinking?” Kane asked. Taker nodded.

“Either Jerry is going to get herself in a lot of trouble trying to prove Deidra has something to hide. Or?” Taker couldn’t let it come out.

“She a Fed!” Kane finished.

Chapter Forty

Alondra drove down the road rambling on. Cage was half listening. He was worried about Jerry. They were nearing the path that lead to her house. He debated whether pr not to get Alondra tot take him by to check to see if she had returned or not. Or if indeed Deidra had caused her some harm. He thought as they neared the opening. Then he got an idea.

“Oh shucks!” He yelled. Alondra looked over to him quickly.

“What?” She asked, as she continued to drive.

“I just remembered! I left my other tool box over Jerry’s. You think you could swing by there for a minute?” He asked. Alondra pulled to the side.

“Cage! Don’t play with my intelligence. You just told my Dad and Uncle she was out of town.” Alondra reminded him. He looked at her then out the window. Damn! He thought. Didn’t know she had overheard.

“Well, yeah! But I left it out in the garage, so I can run in and out without disturbing anything. Alondra looked at him suspiciously. He was lying and she knew it. Okay, she thought. She’ll play along with him.

“Sure!” She said and drove further up and turned into the path. They went a distance before coming into the opening.

Deidra was sitting and waiting for Jerry’s return. She was getting very impatient, wondering what was taking her so long to get back. Then she heard the car coming into the yard. She ran to the curtain and peered out.

Damn! She thought, turning away from the window. Alondra! Then an idea flowed through her head. Some assurance Jerry will be corporate. She waited for her to get out the car and come up to the door.

Double Damn! She thought. She wasn’t alone. That handyman was with her. That plan was a bust. But that’s okay. Plan A was still in affect.

Alondra turned off the vehicle, as Cage jumped out of the car and ran up the porch. Alondra exited the driver’s side and stood staring at him. He began to knock on the door and pacing up and down the porch. He knocked nervously on the door and paced some more.

She took this in. Then he jumped off the steps and ran to the back. She could hear him pounding and calling from there. She leaned on the car and observed his behavior. Why did she get the feeling there was more going on between her Aunt and Cage then met the eye. he finally came back around the front and stared.

“I thought the tool box was in the garage?’ She asked. He turned his head to look at her. She saw something there that made the hair on her neck stand up.

“I just remember I left them in the house.” He answered, voice a little shaky.

“Well it doesn’t matter. Jerry isn’t home remember?” She reminded him of what he had told them. He turned and walked silently back to the SUV. Alondra got back in and started up the car, then drove away. Cage continued to stare at the house and hope everything was well with Jerry.

Deidra took a peek out the curtain and watched the two leave unknowing she was in the house, waiting. She moved away from the window, going back to the sofa she had been lying on and waiting for Jerry. Soon! Very Soon, she will have her biggest possession.

Jerry went through the contents of the envelope given to her by Mr. Elliott. She couldn’t believe the overwhelming evidence this man had. He had his daughter followed since the time she left home until now.

She shook her head. All the people whose lives had been destroyed by this woman over the years. She was above deranged. She was snapped out of her thoughts, by the over head intercom. Announcing their approached to the airport and for them to fasten their seatbelts.

She looked out the window to the jigsaw puzzle that represented her home. She was anxious for the plane to land. She only hoped nothing had happened while she was away. Or Cage would have called her. A thought touched her mind. She reached into her purse to give Cage a quick update and see if everything was going well.

She continued searching her purse. Then realized it wasn’t in her purse. She didn’t have it. In her haste to leave, she had forgotten it. Anything could have happened! She pressed her head back into the back seat. This was depressing. She had to get home to catch the Black Widow and save her family. She just hoped she wasn’t too late.

Chapter Forty-One

Taker paced back and forth, thinking. Kane sat back on the sofa watching him. The two had derived that Jerry had left town without them knowing, searching for information on Deidra. Either posing as an FBI agent or she was one.

“Here’s what we have. Jerry posing as an agent to get some dirt on Deidra!” Taker stopped in the middle of his pacing. Kane leaned in towards his brother.

“Yeah, but wouldn’t the old man be smart enough to check out her credentials? Kane asked. Taker pause, registering what Kane had just said. Then his eyes shock over to Kane.

“Right! I’m sure he did!” Taker stared at Kane, who tilted his head to the side.

“Then that would mean she is on a case!” Kane stood and began to micmic his brother’s pacing. Taker crossed his arms over his chest and began stroking his goatee.

“Or maybe she’s just vacationing, since she retrieved family home. Well at least part of it. Since we’re living on the other part.” Taker informed Kane, who stopped and looked confused. Taker smiled.

“The Anderson land and this one belonged to Claire and Jerry’s family. It’s a long story.” Taker told him. Kane reclaimed his seat on the sofa, as an cue he wanted to hear it. Taker smiled.

“Their Father became ill! He had to sell the land and they moved to the city. A few years later the father died. Jerry ran off with some man old enough to be her father. They moved overseas. She seemed happy. I later met Claire. The two kept in touch by letters and phone calls.” Taker took a seat in a chair. Kane shook his head.

“Did you ever talk to her?” Kane asked. Taker shook his head.

“No! It wasn’t not much calling. Only when Claire felt lonely. Like whenever I went on the road. They both discovered they were pregnant at the same time. Right after their mother‘s death. You know the rest.” Taker told him. Kane left his seat and stood silently.

“This is so confusing. What if she is on a case and it involves Deidra and the husband who died?” Kane thinking out loud. Taker jumped to his feet.

“But didn’t you say Vince told you that her father got a call form the FBI person in regards to the death of the husband?” Taker reminded Kane, whose eyes brighten.

“Yeah!” He answered, snapping his fingers. Taker ran over to the phone and called the airport. He asked about a flight. he quickly scribbled down the information. He slammed the phone down and rushed for the front door, Kane following him.

“Where we going?” Kane asked as going out the door and closing it behind him. Taker was already getting in the driver seat of the Lexus.

“To the airport to catch Jerry!” He informed Kane as he got in the passenger side of the vehicle. Taker had turned the car on and was heading out.

“Then what?” He asked.

“I don’t know Kane! I just don’t know!” Taker admitted. Kane turned his head from his brother, leaving him to his thoughts and stared straight ahead.

The plane had to circle a few more times. It moved away from the airport to clear the air space until the could land. Jerry was losing her mind. She wanted to get home to her family, if she still had one. Who knows what that woman was capable of or how far.

After a half hour of extra flying, the plane was cleared for landing. It made the turn back towards the airport and lined itself up to land. It slowly began to descend. Each minute that went by felt like years to Jerry. Feeling the plane coming down gave her some relief.

Soon she felt the bump and up then another bump and the pane’s wheels hitting the runway. She felt herself exhale. Finally on solid ground. She stared about the window as the plane began to slow down and she could make out what had once been a blur. It taxied towards the terminal, coming to a complete stop! She sighed loudly.

The overhead intercom announced that they could unfasten their seatbelts. Which Jerry did with haste. As soon as the doors were opened, she was the first to jump to her feet and spill into the aisle. She pushed her way through and down the ramp, heading through the crowd. She was desperate.

She hailed down a cab on the outside of the busy airport. She told the driver where to go and how much she would pay him if he got there as fast as he could. He sped away. Just then, Kane and Taker drove up to the curb. Taker jumped out and Kane slide over to the drivers side.

“I’ll go in and see if I can find her.” Taker yelled back to him. Kane nodded his head. he watched the towering figure of his brother, scanning the crowd. Then watch him go up to an information desk, ask a question then turn and plowed through the crowd back to the car.

“She already left. Her plane landed minutes ago. She may have just left.” Taker informed Kane as he opened the door and jumped in. At that moment their car plunged forward, causing them to fall forward.

“What the Hell!” Taker yelled, looking back. Kane jumped out of the car and rushed to the back. Taker soon followed. Someone not watching what they were doing had crashed into the back of the Lexus.

“Look what you did to my car?” Kane expected the damage. The Man had slowly exited his car. His eyes larger than life when he saw the two giants emerge from the car he had collided with. He had been on the phone and not paying attention to what he was doing.

“Damn! I don’t need this sh@t!!” Taker yelled, putting his hands on his hips. He looked towards the direction of his home. And Jerry!

Chapter Forty-Two

“Hey! Stop!” He yelled, hand outstretched to the oncoming yellow cab. The cab came to a screeching halt, just inches from the giant of a man standing in the middle of the street and in front of him.

Taker leaned in hands resting on the hood of the vehicle, staring down the man inside. Who was already holding the full bladder that wanted to flow through at this moment in time.

Taker stood straight up, coming to his full height and walked around to the passenger side of the taxi, the driver’s eyes following his every move. He opened the door and stepped in, causing the cab to rock. The driver looked out the corner of his eyes, hearing the door slam.

“Take me to Mockingbird Lane!” His voice boomed into the cabbie’s ear. He didn’t have to say it twice before the cabbie lifted his feet off the brake without hesitation.

“Taker! I’ll be there as soon as I take care of this here! Good luck Bro’!” Kane hollered at his brother as the cab took off.

“Wait!” He said, touching the shoulder of the cabbie, whose foot hit the brakes, causing the cab to jerk forward.

“Okay! Let the police know what we expect!” He yelled out of the window. Kane nodded then turned back to the person who had rammed the back of his Lexus. Taker turned back towards the cabbie and squeezed his shoulder, signaling for him to move onward. He did!

Cage made his way through the back way of Jerry’s land, heading for her house. A road he had often taken. He had thought he spotted someone peeking out of the window as they drove away. He told Alondra of his suspicion, telling her to go to town and notify the locals.

After a few minutes of arguing, he had to tell her who he really was and why he was there. he left out the part about Jerry also being a Fed, thought she should be the one to tell her family. But he put emphasized how dangerous Deidra was.

Reluctantly she went on to town. She had told him she could call with her cell phone and come with him. But he wouldn’t have it, he told her. It would distract him worrying about her. And that’s something he didn’t need.

He made his way up to the field over the hill to the back of the house. He sat there looking for some time trying to detect movement in the house. He could see someone moving from the kitchen to the living area. And with his keen eye, he could make out it wasn’t Jerry. Too tall. It left only one person. Deidra!

He moved towards the house on the other side of the living area using the setting sun as his shield. He quietly came around to the part of the house never used. Jerry had told him she didn’t know what to do with this part. It was her Father, Mother and sister’s rooms.

He jimmied the window open and slowly lifted it, then silently making his way inside. He turned to let it down, when he felt something was off. He froze hearing movement from outside. He braced himself to confront them. A shadow came pass the window, paused for a few moments. He wondered how did Deidra see him? He was the best when it came to these things.

Then hw watched as they came back to the window, then began to lift it up. The body poured into the room clumsily. He took cover in the shadow of a corner, observing the movements. They crawled in and landed on the floor of the room. Then came to their feet and searched the dark room.

He let a small relaxed sigh escape. His record was unblemished. It Deidra hadn’t discovered him coming to the house. It was someone he had sent for back up and decided to follow him.

“Alondra!” He said, grabbing her from behind and covering her mouth with his hand. She struggled for a moment, before finally planting a elbow in a certain spot of his side. He released her instantly, bending over and cringing in pain. Her father had taught her that move.

“And let that be a lesson to you. Never grab a girl from behind. Especially one who is sacred.” She told him. He looked up to her and was going to say something, when the lights in the room came on. In the middle of the doorway stood Deidra, gun in hand, pointed at his head.

“Well, well! Now what do we have here? What a pair! My dear step-daughter and the handyman! I saw your little girlfriend here, sneaking across the field. But I didn’t see you at all. Why was that? But that’s okay! You two will be my insurance policy.” She said and waved the gun, directing them out of the room.

“I told you, you would distract me!” He whispered in her ear as he walked up to her.

“Do something!” She whispered back. he let out a huge sigh. She’s been watching too many movies.

“No talking!” She said, backing out of the doorway and into the hall. She didn’t want neither too close to her. She waved them towards the front of the house. He gave Alondra a gentle nudge as an I told you so. She hit him with her elbow with much less pressure as before, as an warning.

Chapter Forty-Three

Jerry was looking out the window of the cab as it made its way towards her house. She was thinking about everything she had been told by Mr. Elliott. Deidra was a psycho case from a child. A bad seed sort of to say. The sun was making its way behind the horizon. She wanted to get home and take a nice hot bath to relax her nerves.

But she needed to call Cage first, to let him know what she found out about Deidra. And to make sure nothing had happened while she was gone. Suddenly a flash of light caught her from the side. She straighten up and looked around.

“Wait!” She yelled to the cabbie. He immediately put on brakes.

“I thought I saw something off the road. Back up would you?” She said, turning around in her seat. He did as asked. She looked off the road in the direction of the light.

“Stop!” She told him and jumped from the car before he could come to a full stop. She grabbed something out of her purse and proceeded to investigate the object of the light. It was the SUV, sitting off the road. She slowly approached it, gun in hand and heart pounding.

What was Alondra‘s vehicle doing here? She walked around peering inside for any foul play. It was empty. She moved around cautiously, searching the surrounding area. Nothing seemed to warrant any struggle. The SUV was locked. And from the tracks, two people headed out on foot. Towards her ranch.

“Why are they going to my ranch on foot? Did the car go out on them again?” She asked herself. Then a voice interrupted her thoughts.

“Is everything alright?” The driver had gotten out of the car and stood off the road, watching her. She was heading back to him.

“I need you to go back to town and inform the police they are needed at Mockingbird Lane!” She told him as she walked by him and to the taxi. She removed her purse and briefcase from it.

“You gonna be okay?” He asked staring at her tucking the gun in her belt.

“Very!” She said and headed towards the SUV. He stared after her for a moment then jumped in the car, making a U-Turn in the middle of the road and went back towards town. Jerry threw her things under the SUV for safe keeping. Then started out towards her ranch. She had a gut feeling something wasn’t right.

The taxi was nearing town when he saw his brother in the taxi heading out of town. He waved him down. The other came to a stop in the middle of the road. Taker could feel his blood boiling.

“Hi!” He said, looking inside the other’s taxi. He could see the man nearly taking up the whole back seat.

“I’m kinda in a hurry here! I’ll talk to you later!” The man said nervously.

“Yeah me too! I just wanted to warn you that there’s a woman back there that I let off the road. She was carrying a gun. There was this SUV she spotted and told me to go straight for the police and tell them what happened.” he told his brother. Taker listen to this and jumped out of the car and rushed to the other taxi.

“Take me to where you dropped her off! And you go back and tell the police their needed at where you were taking me.” Taker threw around the orders, then jumped into the other taxi. Both taxis made U-Turns in the road and headed to their destinations.

Chapter Forty-Four

Jerry came up back of her ranch. She paused, looking down at the house. She could see a flicker of light, now that the sun had set and didn’t remember leaving a light on. Then she spotted movement in the living area. She could barely make anything out, but three silhouettes passing a window. She ran swiftly across the open field, coming up the other side of the house, as Cage and Alondra had come.

She heard voices. One was Deidra. And oh no! Alondra. They seem to be arguing about something. That girl is going to get a good talking to. She shouldn’t be in there. And the other shadow she saw had to be Cage’s. Boy is she going to kick his butt for putting her niece’s life in danger. Though she probably already figured out that this was more of Alondra’s idea than his.

Then the two voices grew louder. Cage’s voice joined them. He was trying to get Alondra to calm down. Then suddenly there was silence. She got an eerie feeling this was the quiet before the storm. She peered through the window. Deidra had a gun and was slowly stalking up to Alondra.

Jerry moved back from the window, bracing herself against the wall. She took in a few long breaths. She then relaxed and knew it was now or never. She slowly moved passed the window. Cage saw the dark flash by. He knew it had to be only one person. Jerry! He tried to buy her sometime. He stepped between Deidra and Alondra.

In the distance sirens could be heard. Deidra turned her head, alerted by the sounds. That’s when Jerry made her move. She kicked in the door, gun in pointed at Deidra. But at the same time, Alondra had plans of her own. She jumped at Deidra being distracted by everything. Cage was tossed to the side and fell into the lamp on the table. Everything went blank. Gunshots ranged out.

The cabbie dropped Taker off where he had left Jerry. Taker paid him and searched the area. He spotted the top of the SUV and headed towards it. He looked it over and saw the doors were locked. And saw Jerry’s things underneath. He took them from under the car, reached in his pocket and took out his keys.

He unlocked the door and tossing Jerry’s things in the passenger side, entered the car. He was just starting the car up, when he saw the flashing red lights racing down the road towards Jerry’s place. He took off over the field. He would get there before them.

It wasn’t long before he pulled up to the open field outback. He saw the lights on in the house. Then he saw the house go pitch black. And the next sound that made his blood curd. Gunshots. He put the SUV in full speed, driving like a madman up to the house. He face the house with his headlights, to see what was going on inside. He jumped out of the vehicle and ran upon the porch, peering side.

“Jerry!“ He yelled in the house. At this moment, the police cars poured into the huge open space in front of the house. They came out with guns in hand.

Taker was already in the house and looking around. Deidra laid in a pool of blood. Alondra was being held by Cage. Jerry was on the floor, holding her shoulder. Little trickles of blood, flowing over her hand.

“Jerry!” He ran to her and picked her up in his arms. She looked at him almost conscious.

“Taker! What are you doing here?” She said, passing out in his arms. The police were now spilling into the house, guns in front of them. Cage had began talking to them, as he flashed his badge. He moved over to Deidra, placing two fingers to the side of her neck. She was still alive. But hardly.

“We’re going to need an ambulance, this was is alive. But not for long.” He told them. Taker took a seat on the couch with Jerry. Alondra hand ran and got a towel.

“Press this against the area. It will stop the blood, clotting it.” Alondra told him. He took it and placed it as she had instructed. Then his eyes went back up to her. She knew what was coming.

“You’re grounded young Lady. What are you doing here?” He asked, eyes glistening. Cage came over to them. His eyes grew narrowed.

“Wait Daddy! Cage tried to get me to go to the police. I followed him.” She explained before her father blew up. He looked hard then his eyes went back to Jerry in his arms.

“I gather you two are partners or something like that? And this was a case you two were on.” Taker asked, without looking up to him. Cage shifted from one foot to the other. He didn’t want to reveal much while Jerry wasn’t able to defend herself.

“Sir! I feel it’s Jerry’s place to explain everything to all of you.” He said and walked away, hoping that would end it. The Paramedics entered the room and two went to Deidra and began tending to her.

Taker rose with Jerry to his feet and walked outside to another ambulance coming up. He stood there while the brought out the gurney and he gently placed her on it. Then he backed away and watched as the loaded her up.

He turned to go to his SUV, when he saw them bringing another gurney out of the house, carrying Deidra. The sheet covering her. Her long psychotic struggle had ended. His heart felt a little for her. He made his way to his SUV.

At that time Kane drove up. He jumped from his Lexus and walked up to his brother. He looked around at all of the commotion. Then his eyes caught them loading the covered body in the ambulance. He looked to his brother who seemed very distraught. He placed a gentle hand on his shoulder.

“Jerry?” He asked, not sure if he wanted to hear this. They had just found the one person that could connect them to someone so dear to them, that they had lost. Only to lose them.

“No! Deidra! Jerry just left. She had been shot. She could have been killed, Kane! I don’t know!” He said and jumped in his SUV, driving away from the crazy scene.

“Uncle Kane!” Alondra called coming out of the house with Cage at her side. His badge hanging from his shirt pocket to identify his presence.

“You’re a FED?” Kane asked. Cage stopped a short distance away.

“Uncle Kane! Please don’t embarrass me.” She walked up to him and gave him a big hug.

“Young Lady you are grounded for life.” Kane shot Cage a look.

“You’re too late. Daddy already grounded me. I also explained Cage tried to get me to go to the police. I followed him.” Alondra explained once again. Kane nodded his head.

“Where’s Jerry?” He asked, realizing everyone was accounted for, dead or alive.

“She was shot in the shoulder. They rushed her to the hospital.” Alondra informed him. Kane shook his head. What a crazy last few days. It felt like a hurricane hit them. yeah, Hurricane Deidra.

Chapter Forty-Five

Blair was in her bed when she heard talking outside her door. It was about some shootout at the Anderson’s ranch. They were talking about one person dead and another shot, who was on her way to the emergency room.

“Jerry!” She whispered to herself. Deidra must have gone after her. Oh no! Alondra was there too. What if she killed one and injured the other. She unhooked herself from the monitors and took the IV solution off the pole. She slowly walked over to the wheelchair and sat down. She couldn’t wait for Kane or Taker to tell her anything. She headed down to wait in the ER area. She had to know.

At that moment the siren announced the arrival of the ambulance. She braced herself for the worst. She watched as the Doctors and Nurses assisted the Attendants in unloading the gurney. They race through the door. Blair saw the face. Jerry!

“Wait!” She called to them.

“Ma’am! We have to get her to surgery immediately.” One of the Nurses stopped and told her.

“That’s my sister in law. I need to talk to her.” Blair grew anxious. If Jerry was alive, then that meant only one thing. Alondra wasn’t.

“No! Stop!” The weak voice said. They did as asked. Blair wheeled herself up to the gurney and stood to her feet, to look Jerry in the face.

“Alondra?” She said, voice cracking and tears starting to stream down her face. Jerry, weakly looked into her eyes. She had lost a lot of blood.

“She’s fine!” She said and passed out once again.

“Move IT!” The Doctor yelled and the gurney sped away, leaving a relieved Blair standing there. Her baby was fine, she said. Then who was dead? At that moment another ambulance came up. Blair sat and watched the gurney unloaded and pulled slowly into the ER.

“Is this the expired one?” The Nurse asked. The Attendants nodded.

“Take her down to the morgue. We’ll wait for the next of kin to come and make arrangements.

“I’m her kin. May I look at her for one last time?” Blair asked, standing up once again. She lifted the sheet and stared at the crazy woman who had tried to destroy her family. She felt no love lost. She threw the sheet back over her face and sat down in her wheelchair, headed off to see how Jerry was coming along.

Taker made it to his home. He went to leave the SUV, when his eyes fell on Jerry’s things. Reaching over and picking them up, he got out of the vehicle and headed out of the garage. He made his way across the open space between it and the house. He then stepped on the porch, turned and looked out as he always did.

After a few moments, his curiosity got the best of him. He opened the briefcase, out fell a badge. Jerry’s! So she is an agent. Now the thing is, were they just part of a case and being duped to think she was the long lost sister of Claire. Or was she truly Claire’s sister.

‘My ever cynical Taker! How many times have I told you not to follow your head, but your heart.’ The voice flowed ever so gently through his ear. Claire’s voice.

“I don’t know Babe! My head is a better judge. My family almost was torn apart by these two women. What am I gonna do?” He was stomped.

‘Follow your heart.’ The voice repeated as it faded away. At that moment, he felt something leave him. He didn’t know what exactly, but something left a void in his heart.

He sat down. A picture fell out of the briefcase. It was one of Claire and Jerry! It must have been one of them before their father died and the their split. He hadn’t seen this one before. He saw one of them younger. They seemed so happy. Something tugged at his heart.

So much to think about. A car pulled into the yard and Alondra exited it as it headed into the garage. She slowly walked over to her father sitting on the porch. She took a seat on the rail and stared down at him. She could see he was in deep thought. That’s when she saw the picture.

“Is that Mom and Aunt Jerry?” She jumped down and came to squat next to her father to get a good look. He looked over towards her.

“That was a very dangerous thing you did tonight.” He scolded her. Kane made his way towards them. He stopped midway hearing his cell phone going off. He opened it and began to talk.

“I know! But I don’t know Dad! I think I might be better off going into law enforcement. I thin I’ll be good at it.” She said and waited for him to answer.

“I’m against it, but you have to do what makes you happy. You’re grown up. Can’t tell you what to do with your life anymore.” Taker rose to his feet, studying Kane on the phone.

“Alright! I’ll let them know.” Kane closed the phone and started towards his brother and niece.

“That was Blair! She got wind of what happened. Boy did she chew my butt off. Is it still there?” Kane twisted to see it was. Taker just stared. Alondra gave a light chuckle.

“Something else she thought we might want to know. Jerry is out of surgery. She’s going to be alright.” Kane told them.

“What is Blair doing? She’s suppose to be in bed resting. I hope you chewed her butt out!” Taker snapped. Kane looked at him strangely.

“No Bro’! I didn’t chew her butt out for caring about her family.” Kane came back at him.

“Family? We’re just fine. Did you tell her that?” Taker told him. Kane shook his head.

“Jerry was almost killed tonight, by a woman YOU married. Wait! Why am I standing here. I’m going to the hospital to be with my wife and the sister of a very special woman who came into our life. Now that specialty has graced us once again. I don’t want Jerry to wake up and no one is there for her.” Kane turned and walked away. Alondra looked at her father for a long time. Then she ran pass him and after her Uncle Kane.

Taker stood alone on the porch. He watched as the Lexus sounded up and pulled out of the garage, disappearing out of his sight. He fell back in his seat, bending over, cradled his head in his hands. What to do?

Chapter Forty-Six

Three Days Later..........

Jerry sat on the bed in her hospital room, waiting for Alondra to get her discharge papers and take her home. She rubbed her shoulder where the stitches were and adjusted the sling her arm will be in for a while.

Up until yesterday, when she was released from the hospital. Blair had been her constant visitor. along with Kane, Alondra and Cage. All of them had been great support through this ordeal. All except for one.

She sighed. Taker never once came to see about her. For whatever his reasons. Her thoughts were interrupted by the beautiful niece she had come to love dearly. She bounded into the room with a huge smile etched across her face. Followed by Cage with a wheelchair.

“Ready to go Auntie Jerry?” She said proudly. Glad she didn’t have to pretend anymore. Jerry answered by jumping off the bed.

“I won’t be needed that.” She told him and proceeded to walk out the door. Only to be stopped by Alondra.

“I’ve already went a round with him. It’s hospital policy. You have to be wheeled you out. Once you’re out of the building, you can do what you want. We felt you would feel better if one of us did it. Cage volunteered.?” Alondra explained. Jerry looked from Alondra to the Cage. He nodded in confirmation to what she had just been told.

“Sorry Jer! This is the only way you can get out of here.” He have laughed. Jerry didn’t find it at all amusing.

“Oh alright! Let’s get the hell out of here.” She snapped and flopped down in the chair. Alondra couldn’t help but chuckle under her breath. Cage gave her a quick smile and pushed the chair through the door.

On the way home Jerry thought of what she would be doing next. Her boss already told her she would be off duty for s a few months. Maybe she could take a long vacation. But not until after Alondra goes away for school. She wanted to spend as much time as she could before that.

“So Alondra! Why don’t you tell your Auntie here about your change of plans.” Cage voice brought her back. Alondra could be heard shifting in the backseat.

“I don’t think she wants to hear about plans right now. I have plenty of time to talk to her about that., Cage!” She had a bit of anger in her voice. Jerry looked at Cage, who was smiling. She got the hint these two have become very close.

“No Alondra! I would love to hear it.” She turned in her seat and looked at her niece who was looking strange at her.

“What’s the matter? Is there something I missed?” She looked back at Cage, who shrugged his shoulder.

“I feel your niece should be the one to tell you.” He looked over to Jerry. She turned her head back to Alondra. She got this sinking feeling in her stomach. Alondra looked down at the floor, then out the window.

“I wanted to wait a while before I told you. But big mouth here decided to open the can of worms. So here goes. I’ve decided not to go to college after all!” She started. Jerry’s eyebrows raised.

“And how does your father feel about this?” She inquired. Alondra looked to her.

“He’s okay with it. Really doesn’t like it, but excepting it.” She told her. Jerry stared in space for sometime, then turned around in her seat. What is Taker thinking? She thought.

“Tell her the rest Alondra!” Cage interjected. This time Alondra slapped him gently in the back of the head. Jerry looked over at the interaction. Yes, these two have really gotten close. Cage was smiling from ear to ear. Kids! She thought.

“There’s more?” She finally asked. Alondra turned towards the window, not wanting to see her aunts face.

“I’m not going to school, because I’m going to be an FBI agent.” She said quickly, then braced herself for the fallout.

“STOP THIS DAMN CAR!!” She yelled. The car came to an screeching halt. Jerry jumped out of the car and slammed the door behind her. She stomped back and forth, yelling profanity.

“Wow! I didn’t know she could get that angry!” Alondra stared out the window.

“Oh this is nothing! Wait until she gets finish. That’s when the fun starts.” Cage warned her.

“Oh!” She said, watching her aunt flinging one arm around and mouth moving faster than a locomotive. After a few moments. Jerry composed herself. And started back to the car.

“Oh boy! Not good!” Cage said. Alondra sat back in her seat and sat as still as a statue, watching the door open and her Aunt entering the car. Cage started up again, coming to the road leading up to Jerry’s ranch.

“NO! Take me to Taker! We have something to discuss!” She commanded. Cage didn’t argue. He could tell by how quiet her voice, she was really angry. And better Taker to be at the other end of this anger than him. Alondra sunk down in her seat, covering her face.

Chapter Forty-Seven

Taker was sitting up in his room at his desk, pondering over to pictures. One of Claire and him on their wedding day. The other with Claire and Jerry standing side by side, smiling at some event. The house was dead silent and empty. Kane and Blair were over Jerry’s. Planning a welcome home party.

He had elected to stay out of it. In his mind, he wasn’t sure of his feelings for Jerry. He didn’t know if his love for her was due to her similarity to Claire. Or because of herself.

That’s why he didn’t call or go to see her while she was in the hospital. He felt it was best he kept his distance. Yeah, he knew for Claire and Alondra sakes, he should try to make her feel comfortable, as being part of the family. But how was he to do this, knowing she would only take it to mean something else?

Something he knew, he couldn’t give to her now. Knowing that she wasn’t some stranger who dropped into their lives. But the sister of the one woman he has loved for all this time. He wasn’t ready to give that up. Or fill that void.

That’s why marrying Deidra was so easy. He had no real feelings for her. He had to admit. He used her as much as she used him. So he couldn’t be angry at her, after all the information on her came out.

She was just someone to keep him form coming home to an empty bed at night. And to keep the single women at bay. It was safe to be with her. Knowing that she would never threaten his love for Claire. Or help him to move on. Jerry on the other hand, was another story. His thoughts were interrupted by his door being swung open and slamming into the wall.

“WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?” Jerry crashed into the room. Taker jumped to his feet and stared down at the little fury yelling at him.

“What in the world........” He started confused. He looked pass her into the door way, seeking Alondra. He knew Cage and her were picking her up from the hospital.

“You’re really going to let this go without saying anything?” She continued, pacing back and forth in front of him.

“What?” He was still confused. Then the lights came on, he felt.

“Oh, I see!” He stared down and figured she was talking about him not contacting her while she was in the hospital.

“Do you now?” She turned and caught his expression.

“I’m sorry I didn’t come to see you at the hospital and all!” He put one hand on his hip and gestured with the other. Her eyes watched his hand moving in front of her face. Then her eyes met his and what he saw made him move the hand out of her face.

“You arrogant, pompous oaf. Do you think I would be this angry because you didn’t come to see me in the hospital? What an Ass!” She walked away from him than turned around to stare long and hard. Taker stared at her blankly. Yeah, that’s what he thought.

“Well, what else could there be?” He had to ask. She put a half smile on her face, then shook her head.

“You know, I thought you were someone special. Due to all that my sister had told me. Then I met you. And those feelings didn’t change, they grew. But after the last week or so, the things I’ve seen you do. Made me realize, that was someone completely different she spoke to me about.” Jerry replied. He stood silent, letting all she had said sink in.

“Then why did you come?” He gazed on her with a new respect. She was moving towards the door, then turned and addressed him.

“Your daughter and my niece. I just found out she plans on not going to college to pursue a career as an FBI agent. She said you didn’t say much about her decision. Maybe you should.” She answered him. He tilted his head to the side.

“She has a mine of her own. She’s a lot like her Mom. And Aunt. You were the reason she decided. You’re one, what’s the problem?” He challenged her.

“You see this here, could have been there. Then we wouldn’t be having this conversation. That’s how it is.” She pointed to her shoulder, then her heart. He tensed a little.

“So you may want to show a little more interest in her and not so much in yourself. After all you lost a wife, you don’t want to lose a daughter too.” She gave him one last stare down, turned and disappeared from out the door. He stood for a few moments, before Alondra rushed in. She had heard everything.

He looked at his daughter for a moment. Then gather her in his arms. They held each other for sometime. They will discuss her decision later. Right now he just wanted to hold her close. He knew whatever, it was her decision to make.

Chapter Forty-Eight

Jerry had walked out of Taker’s room and ran into Alondra. They stared long and hard at each other. Jerry walked over t her niece and stroked her arm gently. Alondra placed her hand over her aunts. She was happy for her protectiveness. Having her around will make her feel close to the mother she never knew.

Jerry walked down the hall and stairs. Cage stood at the bottom, waiting for whatever may occur. She paused in the middle of the steps, hearing Alondra’s foot steps going into her father’s room.

Jerry continued on and walked pass Cage. He watched her go out the door, then turned his head up the stairs, thinking. Then he ran to catch up with Jerry , who was already in the car waiting. passed

“You alright?” He asked, starting up the car and steering it away from the house.

“Yeah, I’m just dandy.” She said, looking out the window. Cage took a quick glance over to her. Then back to the road.

“Kane and Blair are at your place. We were going to give you a welcome home party. I thought I should tell you so you can decide if you feel up to it.” Cage told her. She shifted in her seat, bringing her hand up to her mouth.

“It’s okay! I don’t want to be alone. A party with people who care may be what the Dr. ordered.” She said. Cage could tell by her tune, that there was something more bothering her than Alondra deciding to become a Agent.

“You know Jerry! I spent some time with your niece. She is a hell of a girl. Or young woman. You don’t have to worry about her. She has a good head on her shoulder. Taker did a damn good job raising her.” Cage broke the silence. Jerry looked over towards him.

“I know he has. Along with Kane and Blair. She is wonderful. My sister would be proud of her. It’s just that.” Jerry couldn’t find the words.

“Too much like you!” Cage finished for her. Jerry straighten up in her seat and turned towards him.

“What do you mean?” She asked a little annoyed. Cage pulled the car over to the side of the road, turned it off and then turned to face Jerry.

“You can get as angry with me as you want. But you are going to hear me out.” He started. Jerry just stared, stunned.

“Alondra isn’t you or her mother. She is a combination of you both, along with her father. She’s not going to run away from pain and do something stupid. Not that I’m saying what you did was, but that she’s not going to. Look how she handled her father marrying Deidra?” He said. Jerry thought for a moment.

“Yeah, I guess. I thought with everything she was doing what I did.” Jerry looked at Cage.

“But then you know she wouldn’t. There is something else bothering you. Spill!” He said. Jerry turned away from him and eyes fixed on the road ahead.

“Nothing! Take me home, please!” She spoke barely above a whisper.

“No Jerry! Not until we get this settle. It’s not about Alondra as much as it’s about Taker not coming to see you in the hospital.” He laid it out on the line. She turned to stare out the window. She didn’t want him to see the tear forming in her eyes.

“It’s okay Jerry! We’ve been partners too long not to know what’s eating away at the other. I’m going to get out and let you pull yourself together.” Cage touched her shoulder lightly and left the car. Jerry felt him leave the car, feeling the weigh lift and the door. The tears began to stream down her face.

Yes, it hurt that he hadn’t come to see her or even pick up the phone to call. Maybe this was fate, telling her it was wrong to be in love with her dead sister’s husband.
She hadn’t planned on it. But reading the letters over the years her sister had sent her over and over, seeing how happy he had made her. She had fell in love with him.

She could hear Cage’s foot steps coming back to the car. She quickly wiped her face with her handkerchief. She continued to look out the window, not wanting him to see what was in her eyes. Pain!

The door opened and the car sunk from his weight. The door closed behind him. The key turned and the car started up, moving on down the road. They were silent as they came up to the road leading to her place, but instead of turning up into it, the car continued on pass it.

“Where are you going?” She started, turning to Cage. She gasped, then froze.

“To a special place! We need to talk!” Taker looked at her then, back to the road with a smirk on his face. Jerry looked at him for a long time, then sat back in her seat without a word of protest.

Alondra and Cage stood by the SUV and watched the two drive away. Then jumped in it and headed for Jerry’s ranch to inform her Uncle and Aunt.

Chapter Forty-Nine

Silence ruled the moment, as the vehicle made its way down the road. The tension do thick, even a knife couldn’t slice through it. Jerry’s eyes fixed on the side window. She had no idea what to say to the events leading up to now.

She had been shot by a psycho and now her widower is taking her for a ride. Maybe her last. She laughed at the thought. No, but she knew he had something in mind. But if he thinks. Well, he has another thing coming. She watched as the scenery became familiar to her. When he turned off the main road onto a smaller, she knew exactly where he was taking her.

“Special huh?” She started. He never looked her way, continuing his course.

“Special! Meaning something or someplace held above others. Designed for a particular purpose or occasion. So how does taking me to a ‘special place’, now mind you had deemed sacred between my sister and yourself and that you so nicely brought your dead wife, could possibly be special now?” She turned her head for the first time since he entered the car, looking for an explanation. He never looked at her, he she smiled.

‘Oh no Jerry.’ He thought. ‘You’re not going to spoil it this time.’ Jerry saw she wasn’t going to get a rise out of him.

‘Hmm! Why is he so happy?’ She thought. She had tore him a new one earlier, now he was just sitting all mysteriously smiling. She looked ahead and could see the ‘Special place’ coming into view. She gave a grunt. His eyebrow slightly lifted, then went back in place.

The car slowly approached the area, Alondra had showed her. When they accidentally came on Taker sucking Deidra’s face. That was the beginning of the nightmare. He wound up marrying the demon seed. Not to mention Deidra nearly killed her. Which led to the confrontation between herself and him.

Cage was right. The anger didn’t stem as much form the career choice of Alondra as the fact, Taker never came to see her while she mended from the injury. Not even a phone call.

“Why didn’t you come to see me in the hospital. Not even a damn phone call. I thought you and I had a friendship?” She turned to look at him as they came up to the place. She wanted to get it straight, there will be nothing but answers when the came to a stop. But stop they didn’t.

Eyes peeled on Taker and his peeled to the road, the car continued onwards. She shifted her eyes to see that they were passing the area by. She turned around in her seat and watch the place move further and further behind them, disappearing around a bend in the road.

“Hey! You passed the ‘Special Place’ by.” She turned back to look at him. He turned his head to her and stared.

“I said I was taking you to a special place. You’re the one who figured it was the place, your sister and I spent time.” He then looked back to the road. Jerry stared for a few moments at him, then slowly straighten herself out in her seat. Boy did she feel like a fool. She elected to remain quiet for the rest of the trip. She thinks she had done and said enough for the day.

They drove along a winding road, with forestry on either side, not much to see but ahead of you. Then she felt the road leading upwards and coming out of the greenery. To her side as the came out into the open, was the lake. As far as you could see, it stretched out to the horizon.

The trees set like a painted picture in the background. It took her breath away. She let out a small gasp. Taker’s eyes slid to their corners, to take a sneak glance at her. He nodded his head, pleased he had begun his quest to make this a day she will remember.

“Oh, this is beautiful.” She allowed to escape her lips. She nearly turned around in her seat, staring at the wonderment as it too vanished out of her sight. The road turned into heavily covered with trees. Very dark and secluded. She settled once again in her seat. Not sure if this is where she wanted to be. Then they moved into a clearing.

There before her was a cabin. It was long across, with a matching porch. With steps leading up it. There was a couple of rocking chairs with a small table between them. The car came to a stop under a carport on its side. Taker exited the vehicle.

Jerry watched him come around to her side and open the door. She gazed into his eyes for the first time in a while. He looked deep into her own. The electricity swirled around them. It was like the where apart from the rest of the world. A ‘Special Place’ indeed.

She placed her hand in his outstretched palm and watched it get swallowed up, as he gently closed his hand around hers. He assisted her to her feet and walked passed him, while he closed the door. Her eyes scanned the area, taking in the enchanted place.

She could still see portions of the lake. There was a small boat docked on a pier. She felt Taker’s hand at the small of her back. His touch sent waves of current through her body. She wanted him bad. Ad in this place, who knows what will happen. Something good she hoped.

Chapter Fifty

Taker guided Jerry towards the front of the cabin. She felt his hand resting gently on her back. She wanted to stop at that moment and kiss him long and hard. Throwing her inhibitions aside. But she couldn’t. It was that need to know which made her the agent she had become. Always looking for answers to what and why. She walked up the three steps it took to get on the porch. Taker towering behind her took less time to reach it.

“Here have a seat. I know you must be tired. It’s been a long morning.” He said leading her to one of the rocking chairs. She stopped in front of it and watched him heading for the cabin door.

“Claire and you come here often?” Her mouth was never one to know when to open and when not. It had always been that way with her. Even as a child. Taker’s head turned towards her as he fumbled to find the right key that would open the door.

“I only wished.” He said solemnly, then turned his head back to the door, finally finding the key that would unlock the door. Jerry shifted her body leaning to one side.

“When I said a special place, as you pointed out the meaning to me. I meant that. No one but me and the builders know about this place. Not even Alondra.” He said, turning the key and opening the door. Jerry watched Taker disappear into the cabin.

She was tempted to follow to see what the inside looked like, since no one but her had been there. But instead, feeling her head began to swim, slowly backed up and took that seat offered to her. Her head was swimming.

Taker moved inside the cabin with ease. He had come here a thousand times over the years, never wanting to disturb anything. Until now. It was to be home away from home type thing. It was a big surprise he had for Claire when she had the baby. He was going to bring them here when she was strong enough to enjoy it.

But fate stepped in and that dream died along with her. He closed the place up and left it for many years. He hired a caretaker to tend to it. But the last few days, he had a change of heart. He had made a decision, but didn’t know it until Jerry poured into his room going off on him. He knew then. She was the one to carry him through the rest of his life. He wasn’t about to lose her.

He looked the place over, making sure everything was in place. He was satisfied she would like it. He made his way into the kitchen and poured some juices. He was going to make sure she takes good care of herself. He took a deep breath and headed back out onto the porch.

Jerry had recovered from the dizziness. She sat rocking back and forth in the rocker, staring the lake. She watched the swans, ducks and geese gliding on the water. She heard Taker before she saw him as his footsteps announced him arrival. He handed her a glass of h\juice, which she took and quickly began to drank it. She didn’t know how thirsty she was until the moisture touched her lips. Taker turned and walked over to the steps and took a seat. He stared out as he would do at his ranch.

“Taker! I’m so sorry for being such a hard ass. I just assumed.” She started. Taker took a sip of juice.

“Yeah! You were being. But not saying I didn’t bring it on. I should have called or better yet, come to see you.” He said, taking another sip. Boy could he do with a JD and beer. But he didn’t want her drinking any hard stuff, so he’ll do without. Until he gets home. If he does.

“I deserved that. But yeah, I wished you had.” She said softly, staring into her drink. Taker’s head slightly turned in her direction. He regarded her with such feelings. Not even he new the depths. She was Claire’s sister. His beautiful dead wife. She was so much like her. Yet, so much different. Now he knows why he could see it, but couldn’t. They’re similar but opposites.

“What was it like with you two growing up?” Taker asked out of the clear blue. Jerry’s eyes rose to meet his own. Taker stared deep into them.

Her initial reaction was to pounce on him. She would not be living in her sister’s shadow. But then her mind changed. Something in the way he looked in her eyes tugged at her heart. It wasn’t about her being Claire’s sister anymore. It was about Claire being hers.

“We were happy. That’s the best description I can give. We ran and played together. We were inseparable. We loved each other so much. And as much as we played hard, we fought just as hard.” She added and began to laugh. This got Taker’s attention, he turned towards her and leaned against the rail post.

“You tow fought?” Taker seemed surprised.

“You mean Claire never told you that part. Claire my dear sister. Always the one to keep things in.” Jerry said then grew silent. She stared in her glass then out into the lake once again. She covered sat the glass of juice on the table next to her and covered her mouth. The tears began to stream. Taker sat his glass down and rose to his feet, he came to stand in front of her.

“I think you need to get some rest. Come with me.” He extended his hand out to her. She slowly turned her head and stared at his hand for a moment, then looked up at him. Without question, she watched his hand engulf hers. He assisted her to her feet and lead her into the cabin. She paused at the door, not sure if she should or not, but a gentle squeeze form his hand helped her decision.

“There are two rooms. Here take this one. While you’re napping, I’ll fix some lunch.” He opened the door to one of the rooms.

She looked at him, then placed the palm of her hand on his chest. He covered it with his hand, she walked in the room and closed the door behind her. He stood a the door for a few minutes, contemplating should he forget everything and take her now. Instead he pulled himself away and went to get lunch going.

On the other side of the door, Jerry leaned against the door, hoping and wishing for him to come in and make mad love to her. But that was soon douse when she heard his foot steps grow dimmer with each step he took away from her door. She sighed hard, then went to the bed and sitting down on the edge, lied down to get some rest. It was much needed. No sooner than she her head had hit the pillow, she was out like a light.

Chapter Fifty-One

The aroma circled through the air, creeping under the door and made its way over the bed, filling her nostrils. She slowly stirred from a well rested nap. She flipped over on her side, still partly in her dream world. The odor became more pronounced, becoming aware she was not sleep anymore. But in that place where unconsciousness fades away and the senses takes over. She flipped on her back and sat straight up.

She rubbed her eyes with her well hand and looked around the unfamiliar room. The fog finally lifted from her mind, she remembered what the morning had been. She was in a cabin. One that Taker had brought her to. And now her stomach was fussing because she hadn’t fed it and the food in the other room was sending its flavor her way.

She slid to the edge of the bed, sitting for a few. Then slipped her feet into her shoes. She rose from the bed, heading for the bedroom door. Anticipating what was on the other side. Food for her stomach and something for her heart.

Taker had made some hearty hamburgers and fries. Keeping it simple. The onions always made food smell better than it was. He had peeked in on Jerry while she slept. She looked so peaceful lying in the bed. He had decided to take a shot of JD and beer to chase while she was out. One turned into a few. He was feeling pretty good and other things.

He was sitting on the steps of the porch, thinking and drinking. He was startled by the soft touch of the hand on his shoulder, as she came to sit next to him. He looked down into her light brown eyes. She could see he had been drinking. His eyes were nearly bloodshot. She turned away and looked over to the lake. It was calming.

“Sleep well?” He asked. She nodded and continued to look away.

“Good!” He said and rose from the steps. She looked up to his, curious.

“I’m hungry! You?” He asked and walked into the cabin not waiting for an answer. She jumped to her feet and followed him into the kitchen. He had thrown one of the hamburger patties he had cooked, in a bun and was eating it before she entered the kitchen.

“Taker! Sit down and let me fix you a plate. That’s what you get for drinking on an empty stomach. What got into you?” She took the food form his hand, giving him a gentle push out towards the kitchen table.

“You got into me!” He answered and took a seat in a chair. She stopped what she was doing to gaze in his eyes. She saw such longing. They match what she was feeling.

She turned her eyes to the floor, closing them tight. She had face so many dangerous situations in her career as an agent. She never backed down from anything, going full force in each assignment given to her.

But when it came to a relationship. She just wasn’t very good at them. That’s why she had been alone all these years. Yeah, there have been men, but none who stuck around. Why would this one be any different?

“Maybe we should go to my place. And join the others.” She turned away from him. She stared out the window, watching a deer make its way hesitantly up to the back of the cabin. Afraid something would pounce on it without notice. Then!

It happened so quick. Without warning or time to brace herself. Instantly she was in his arms. He gave her a long hard look in her eyes and she knew what he wanted. No words was spoken, as he turned and left the kitchen and food behind. His hunger was of another kind. And he needed it quenched.

Chapter Fifty-Two

Jerry felt as if she was floating in air, as Taker carried her in his arms. She stared at the side of his face, as he looked straight ahead. His destination, his room. She rested her head on his shoulder, watching as the approached the door that lead them to a place in their life where great decisions will be made.

He leaned down and opened the door to the bedroom he had had made for someone else. His dead wife Claire. He paused in the doorway holding the one who had brought him to this time. He looked down at her, she returned the gaze. At that moment, he saw in her eyes all that he would need for the rest of his life. The past was just that, the past. He knew Claire would want this for him.

Taker stepped in the room that would have been for another, but had now would belong to the other. He kicked the door shut behind him and slowly walked over to the bed, eyes never leaving Jerry’s.

He lifted one leg up after the other and came to kneel on the bed, Jerry still in his arms. He gently laid her down, her head coming to rest on the pillow. She looked up at him, longing for him to come beside her. He seeing it in her eyes, obliged.

She turned to her side and touched the side of his face with her free hand. He took it in his own and bringing it to his mouth, kissed it lightly. She felt tremors roll through her being. This was everything she had hoped. To be lying next to the man she had fell in love with, from letters sent and words told to her by her beautiful sister. Whom had been more happier in her life than she had ever or would be. Now she would get the chance to experience that same love or some similarity.

“Are you sure you want to d this?” He asked, still kissing her fingers one by one. She watched as he did this and laughed softly.

“More sure of this than I have ever been of anything in my life.” She told him and moved in to kiss his lips. He leaned down to meet her. Words would not be needed from this point on.

Taker captured her lips with his own, kissing her deeply. She let out a small moaned, feeling his tongue exploring her inner linings of her mouth. He began to come alive, tasting of her. His hand moved over her uninjured arm down to her breast and cuffed it in his hand. She moaned louder. It had been a long time since she felt her breast caress.

She deepen the kiss, entwining their tongues. She moved her hand over his chest, tweaking his nipple. He felt himself grow hard. Things were getting hot and heavy. He released her from his kiss and stared into her eyes. He got the message. She tried to sit up and take off her blouse. He assisted her to a sitting position, he helped her by unbuttoning the blouse and pulling it first off the uninjured arm, then the other one.

Next they went to her slacks. He unbuttoned and unzipped them, pulling them over and off her hips, down her legs. She looked up at him shyly as he admired her well formed body. He quickly discarded his clothing as well. She blushed even more as he came down to the bare necessities. It definitely had been a long time. He took his place next to her and began to loosen the remaining of her clothing. The undies.

She pressed her head deep into the pillow as he removed her bra and panties. She didn’t look at him as his eyes moved over the prize in sight. She closed her eyes as his mouth came down on hers, his tongue roaming inside.

His hand cuffed her breast and began to knead it softly. She could feel her secretions forming in that dark warms spot. She kissed him harder and he added a little pressure to her breast. She moaned.

Leaving her mouth, he took the breast in his own and moved his tongue over the nipple. She groaned out loud. Yes, it had been a long time coming. Which she hoped would be a good one later.

She ran her fingers through his head as he went from one breast to the other, making sure neither felt neglected. He moved down in the valley between her two ample breast and left his mark. She let out a loud breath as he moved down her belly and over her belly button. He lingered there for a while, then parted her legs.

His fingers explored the object of his delight. War and moist. She needed him very much. He looked up at her. She was deep into what he was doing to her body. He moved over her, fully eclipsing her body and entered her gently.

She arched her back, digging her head deeper into the pillow and taking him with great pleasure. It had been so long since anyone had been there. She almost forgot what it felt like. But not in her closest imagination had she thought her would fill her s completely.

The music of love flowed through the air with each entrance and exit. Both enjoying, what the other’s body expressed and what words could never have. They ascended higher than they ever thought, riding the waves of ecstasy. Filled with so much love and expanded as far as he could endured. He released his love in her with such force.

She screamed out his name, feeling the power of his love and filled to the brim. Unable to hold back any longer, she freed her sweet juices and surrounded him warm and tender. He called out to her. They plummeted to the bed, bodies slowly calming as they gave their last twitches. Rid of the their energy, they laid still in the bed, only the heavy breathing evidence of the lovemaking that had just taken place.

Without much left in him, Taker reached over to Jerry and gather her gently into his arms. He gave her a light kiss on her forehead. They fell asleep in this position. Content and satisfied.

A few hours had pass, the sun had already made its descent in the west. Someone began to stir from their sleep and automatically reached over to the other side, seeking their bed partner. Another round of what they had experience was definitely a must. But finding the other side of the bed vacant, they rose to a sitting position and search the room. No one. Jumping out of the bed and putting their clothes on, made their way through the cabin. Then they realized they were alone.

They headed back into the bedroom and sat on the bed, staring into the mirror, wondering what was going on. That’s when the saw the answer to the question. A note placed on the mirror in the bedroom. Address to them.

‘I opened up to you, thinking maybe you wanted me as much as I wanted you. The little confrontation earlier made me realized how much you did. So I let myself go. Pity it had to end this way. Because the love making, was off the chart. I know you love me, but there are some things I think you need to resolve, Taker!

Like the difference between Jerry and Claire. You called her name while you slept. That’s when I realized she will always be a ghost in our bed. When you look at me, she will be there. I can’t live with that. So I’ll go, taking the most wonderful day in my life along with me.

I’ll always love you Taker!

ALWAYS!

Jerry’

Taker allowed the note to fall to the floor. His heart nearly stopping. How was he to go on? After he finally let Claire go. That’s what him calling her name out in his sleep was about, letting her go. He was saying goodbye and she was wishing him well.

“No damnnit! You don’t leave me that easy. Not after what happened in this room today. No one had loved me like that. You can’t hide from me Jerry. Look out little lady, here I come!” Taker leaned in and stared hard into the mirror. He will do whatever or how long it took, she will be found.

Taker went back and laid on the bed, heart broken. He had lost the greatest love of his life once again. No one will compare. This only comes once in a lifetime. You’re lucky to get it twice. He rolled to his side, staring at the empty space next to him.

He was nearly dosing when he felt the bed slightly sink behind him and the gentle had touch his shoulder. He turned over onto this back, to stare into the light brown eyes. He closed his eyes, rubbing them and opened them again. The eyes gazed into his own.

“What?” He started to say something, but was met with a finger over his mouth.

“I was about to make the biggest mistake in my life. Until something or someone’s voice flowed softly through my ear. It said, ‘Turn around idiot, he loves you more than he can say. Stop being a big baby!’” She told him, shifting herself on the bed and sitting down. Going into deep thought. Taker lifted himself up and sat next to her, listening.

“The voice was right Jerry! Not about the idiot part though.” He smiled. Jerry looked over to him with a strange expression on her face.

“What’s wrong?” He asked curious. She looked as if she had seen a ghost.

“It’s so strange. That’s exactly what Claire would have said to me. She never was one to bite her tongue.” Jerry told him. Taker stared for a moment, taking in what she had said, then began to laugh.

“No she wasn’t especially when you did something stupid. A lot like you!” He looked over to her. She stared up into his face, looking it over. What had she been thinking.

“I was saying goodbye to Claire in my dream. She was wishing me well. I think this is what she wanted. And knew we both needed.” He took her hand into his and brought it to his lips, placing a light kiss on it.

“I love you so much. I can’t see life without you in it. You have been there for so long in my mind and now real.” She told him. He didn’t say a word, he could only show her again and again, how much he loved her and what she meant to him. He did until the morning sun ascended over the eastern horizon.

Finis

Thank you

Mystique