Chapter 21

Katelyn heard distant voices coming from downstairs while she looked in the mirror drying her hair with a towel. The smell of fresh coffee beans brewing is what had awoken her, which she was thankful for. She had a few errands to do and a few apartments to look at before getting ready for that Saint Patrick's Day party at her Uncle's cabin… Or is it Sami's cabin? She shrugged. Either way it was nearing nine a.m. and she promised to pick Donna and Nicole up at ten. Quickly wrapping her hair in a messy bun, then straightening her red fuzzy cowlneck tunic, she turned slightly to admire her light denim jeans before giving herself a nod of approval and headed down the oak staircase.

Walking through the archway she noticed the now not so broad back of her Uncle Mick as he leaned his elbows onto of the breakfast bar. Slowly she came up behind him and gently wrapped her arms around him, squeezing him into her very own bear hug. It was nothing like he used to give but she knew he'd appreciate it.

Mick laughed lightly, leaning the side of his head against hers, and lightly patted her arms that wrapped around his chest.

"Good morning, Teddy. Happy Saint Patrick's Day." He said joyfully.

Katelyn left a small kiss against his white beard before taking a stool next to him, nodding gently at her mom's offering of a coffee. She wrapped her fingers round her mug, looking over her shoulder at her Uncle, letting a small smile rest against the corner of her lips. She couldn't help but notice his skin becoming greyer than before, his eyes now dark and sunken, but still his cheeks offered that little reddish warm glow that they always had.

"Happy Saint Patrick's Day, how're you feeling?"

Mick nodded, taking a sip of coffee. "I'm doing all right Teddy. I've been relaxing for a few days; I think I needed it."

Katelyn chewed the inside of her cheek, quickly glancing to her silent mother. She knew she was dying to ask if he'd made his decision yet or had even come close.

"Have you spoken to Sam?" Katelyn asked, blowing the soft steam cloud from her mug.

Mick sighed heavily. "No…not since our last appointment with Nadine."

"You should really give her a call Mick." Insisted Gwen.

Katelyn's eyes shifted to her Uncle, his shoulders tensing slightly.

"I know, but I know what I need to do to make sure I make the right decision…and if I have to look into her pained eyes ever again…"

Gwen reached over the breakfast bar, cupping his hands in hers. "Then just give the poor girl a call. She's trying to hold it together Mick but she's struggling too, and you know she adores the ground you walk on."

Mick smiled. "Yeah, she's a royal pain in my ass…but damn do I love that kid. Maybe I'll give her a call when I get home. I know she's having that party tonight, so she'll be rushed off her feet…" He trailed.

Katelyn cleared her throat. "No excuses, Uncle Mick…as soon as she sees your name across her phone, you know she's answering."

He laughed lightly, then a shallow cough pursued. After a few throat clearings he nodded. Katelyn gently rubbed his back, her eyes moving to her mother's concerned ones.

"Are you even close to making a decision?" Gwen finally asked.

Katelyn chewed the inside of her cheek as she watched her Uncle slowly look up at her mother.

"I think so…" He paused turning to Katelyn. "When do you leave for Boston, and when will you be back?"

"We leave on Wednesday; I'm hoping we'll be back by Friday the latest."

"We?"

"Uh-huh…Sami took it upon herself to buy Nicole and Donna plane tickets to accompany me…" Katelyn answered dryly.

Mick smiled. "You should know how she is by now, especially when it comes to you, Teddy."

Katelyn arched a brow, noticing her mother's smile matching his.

Purposely ignoring the comment, she stared into her black coffee. Sami was protective of everyone, not just her. But she didn't feel like bringing that whole discussion up… Her and Sami were old news. How they felt about each other was old news. Can't they drop their hidden comments already?

She cleared her throat. "Why do you ask anyway?"

"Well I'd like us all to meet at Nadine's office on Monday…I've already called her and she's free at three, is that okay for you guys?"

They both nodded. Katelyn's heart jumped into her throat.

"Then you have to call Sami…because neither one of us nor my darling husband are doing it for you. And don't you dare tell Nadine that she has to either." Insisted Gwen while she emptied her coffee remains into the porcelain sink.

Katelyn giggled to her Uncle's annoyed wave toward his sister.

"I don't know how that poor man puts up with your demanding ass."

"The same way we deal with your stubborn ass…we just do." Replied Gwen with a cheeky smile.

Katelyn slid off her stool, making her way to the sink to rinse her mug before stretching slightly. "Okay, as much as I'd love to stay, I have to get going, and pick up Nicole and Donna."

"Are you girls going shopping for the party?" Gwen asked, refilling Micks cup.

"I think that's on the agenda, I also have that appointment for an apartment viewing at noon and they wanted to come." She stated, before kissing her Uncle good-bye.

"Okay, don't forget to send me pictures. Your father is already mad at you moving so quickly to get a place. Please be careful out there today, you know folks around here are already working on getting drunk."

Katelyn smiled. "I will…and we both know I can't stay here forever mom…I need my own place." Stated Katelyn.

Gwen nodded. "Honey, you don't have to tell me…okay get going or you'll be late. and we know your sister never likes to be left waiting.

***

Sami grabbed the last two bottles of beer from Zack, putting them in the bottom drawer of her fridge.

"I think you're stocked up pretty good." Stated Zack fixing his Irish flag afro wig, then unscrewed the cap from his beer.

Sami nodded, stroking her ginger beard with a smirk. "Yeah, I know it's a bring your own, but I also know these guys tend to run dry, and no one wants that on Saint Patrick's Day…That's a sin in itself."

They both turned to look over their shoulder through the archway of the kitchen as a loud shrill of laughter walked through the pale wood door. A small smirk resting against Sami's Ginger beard.

"It's about time y'all arrived..." Zack said, before kissing an entering Donna then flicking her clover head bopper.

Nicole placed two bottles of whiskey in Sami's hand with a wink, before pulling lightly on the fake beard. "This looks good on you." She paused fixing her Irish Princess tiara. "You're going to love what Billy is wearing. What's to drink?"

Sami tipped her shamrock fedora and turned to the fridge, pulling out some fresh orange juice then shut it with her foot before opening the freezer to rake out the vodka. Placing them on the cobblestone, marble top breakfast bar she watched Nicole take a seat on the stool in front of her. Sami's eyes looked up to an entering Katelyn. She couldn't help but grin at the sight of her ripped denim shorts, knee high green clover socks, and green suspenders over a bright green tank top. The green plaid top-hat head band was an amusing touch. Sami raised a glass in the air silently offering her a drink.

Katelyn shook her head, with a small wave. "Not right now, but I will take a coffee, Lucky Charms." Finally, she released a smile at the sight of Sami in a leprechaun jumpsuit with the beard and all.

"Yes ma'am. I just put on a fresh pot." Sami laughed, tipping her fedora while pouring both Donna and Nicole a vodka and OJ.

Katelyn let her eyes examine the warm rustic kitchen. She loved the little shamrocks hanging from pale wood beams that stretched across the ceiling, matching the rustic cabinets. She could see the improvements Sami had made, not letting the clearly brand-new stainless-steel appliances with the new sleek marble top counters go unnoticed. Appreciating the subtle contemporary design. She gently pushed a strand of hair behind her ear before embracing Zacks hug and then pull out a stool next to her sister.

"So how did the apartment hunt go?" Asked Zack, grabbing two cups from the cabinet like Sami asked, and placed them on the counter.

"Good, actually. I signed everything I needed to. I pick up the keys on Monday, before Mick's appointment." Explained Katelyn, nodding for Sami to pour milk into her coffee.

"Where is it?" Inquired Sami.

"The same complex Terri lives." Answered Nicole.

Sami arched a suspicious brow with a small smirk. Katelyn suddenly matched it. "They're very nice apartments, actually."

"I agree…at least Terri will be right there in case you get scared of the monsters under your bed." Sami trailed before taking a slow sip from her coffee.

"Perhaps starting to drink now isn't such a bad idea." Suggested Katelyn, pushing a small laughter from Sami and the others.

"Do you have any furniture for the place?" Asked Zack.

Katelyn shook her head. "No, and what I do have in Boston can just stay there. I'll just go furniture shopping when I get home, and you can build it all."

Zack laughed. "Why me?"

"Because that's what nice brothers' do, dear." Answered Donna with an arched brow.

Donna's statement pulled a grin from Sami, that caught Nicole's attention.

"Grin it up, you and Billy will be helping too."

"I'm pretty sure I'm busy and or sick that day." Replied Sami with a smirk.

"Asshole." Said Katelyn with a smirk before taking another sip of coffee.

Sami matched her smirk alongside a small wink.

"Let the shenanigans begin!" Yelled a cheerful Billy walking through some of the guests, a whiskey bottle in each hand.

They couldn't prevent the roaring laughter that pursued when being faced with Billy dressed in a bright green shamrock and beer suit, green slippers and all, with his spray-painted ginger beard braided perfectly.

"I told you, you guys would love it." Explained Nicole jumping off the stool to embrace Billy.

"I fucking love it, man." Said Sami through laughter.

Katelyn patted the side of his cheek as he planted a kiss on hers. "I wouldn't have expected anything less."

"What are you guys doing in here? Why aren't we joining the folks out by the lake…Sami get that fire going my friend, it's fecking cold out there."

Chapter 22

Sami rested more wood next to the fire while some of the guests lounged around it as the others splashed in the lake. She made sure not to invite a huge crowd, just a few regulars from the tattoo shop and skate park, she wanted this Saint Patrick's Day to be albeit fun but a peaceful one too. She sat back down on her camp chair by the fire, while Nadine sat back down across her lap, carefully holding her glass of red. Sami pulled her beer from the arm of her chair sipping on it slowly while letting her eyes catch the sight of Katelyn and Terri sharing a lounger across from the fire. The sight of Terri leaning back, in her Irish flag jumpsuit, pushed a smile from her. She tried not paying too much attention to Katelyn sitting between her legs while they joked with Tara, Jordan and Erika, who too were dressed in the good old Saint Patrick's Day attire. Although once Erika arrived, she persisted to wrap her long green boa around Sami's neck to pull her in for a kiss on the cheek, which in turn sent Nadine into a slight fit of rage. Nothing Sami wasn't used to and knew exactly how to defuse the situation, but she was certainly growing tired of having to defend herself and her friends to the woman who she only slept with. She took in a deep breath, knowing she'd have to get used to seeing Katelyn with others. Sure, Terri was just a good friend but having the woman who truly held her heart back in the Pines and never being able to have her how she truly wanted effected Sami more than she would ever show. What will she do when she has to finally witness Katelyn with someone else? Being held by someone else? Giving those intoxicating gazes to someone else? She suddenly swallowed hard, before downing the rest of her beer. Nadine was an amazing woman, and if she was honest, the perfect distraction… But now the person she wanted to be distracted from was right there… Going nowhere… She knew there was nothing Nadine would be able to ever do to take her attention. She took in a deep breath. Get ahold of yourself, Sam.

Sami whispered to Nadine that she needed to get up to get another beer. Nadine raised herself to let Sami up.

"Anybody else need anything else to drink while I'm up?" Asked Sami, her eyes scanning the group.

Billy and Zack asked for more beer while Nicole asked for another bottle of vodka for her and Tara. Donna shook her head while pointing at her full beer. Sami nodded then looked to Katelyn and Terri.

"What about you guys?"

"A few more beers would be appreciated, thank Sami." Explained Terri., before going back into conversation with the others.

Sami nodded and made her way to the cabin.

Through the growing flames of the fire, Katelyn let herself study Sami walk toward the cabin. All night she'd let Terri distract her from the sight of Nadine and Sami being cozied up on the camp chair. She insisted to herself it wasn't a jealousy she felt, it was simply just getting used to seeing Sami with someone… Seeing her being affectionate toward someone else… Watching her fingers gently stroke someone else's thigh… She cleared her throat, catching herself from her daydream. She gently slapped Terri's leg before getting up letting them know she needed to use the restroom. She quickly glanced toward Nadine whose face was immersed in her phone. They hadn't exchanged any words all night, not even simple hellos. She did notice Nadine only saying hello to the guys and Terri, guessing her, Donna, Nicole, Tara and Erika were chopped liver.

Katelyn walked into the warm, rustic living room. The soft orange glow against the pale wood, causing her to instantly feel like she was home. She loved how cozy it all looked. Slowly she made her way through the small archway, walking down the hall toward the simple bathroom. Suddenly she stopped, looking to her left. Pushing the already ajar door a little more, she walked into an array of different drawings pinned against a cork canvas on the wall, and scattered pages over the artist desk. She bit her lip unable to stop herself from moving closer to the images drawn by Sami. Knowing this was the tattooists safe haven. Many had game rooms, not Sami… She had a room filled with her drawings that shielded nearly every inch of the walls. Gently she picked up a black and gray portrait. She didn't recognize the face, but it was flawless. She became lost in it all before a soft voice startled her.

"Can I help you, ma'am?"

Katelyn jumped slightly before turning around and letting a small embarrassed smile cushion her cheek.

"Hey you…" She trailed before turning back to put the drawing down on the desk.

Sami smiled, leaning up against the doorframe. "What you looking at over there?"

"I was just admiring some of your work…" Katelyn trailed before turning to watch a relaxed Sami smile at her.

Sami pushed off her lean, and slowly approached with a glass of whiskey in her hand. She raised it offering Katelyn a sip. Katelyn smiled, taking the offered glass. Taking a gradual sip, she made sure to keep her eyes on the already staring darks. She felt a buzz, she knew that much. Slowly she swallowed the burn as best she could.

Sami smirked. "You're really toughening up to the whiskey huh?"

Katelyn laughed lightly, clearing her throat slightly before giving the glass back.

"Well with a friend like you, do I have a choice?"

Sami laughed lightly, before tipping the glass to Katelyn and downing the rest of it.

"Are you having a good time?" She asked, before putting the glass down behind Katelyn.

Suddenly Katelyn froze as Sami lightly brushed against her. She once again cleared the discomfort from her throat. Remanence of old side-effects she would tell herself.

"Yes, it's the perfect kind of night. A little cold but the fire helps a lot. What about you?"

Sami nodded. "It's the perfect end to a stressful week, I can say that much."

"Did my uncle happen to text you at all?" She asked.

"About Monday?"

Katelyn nodded.

"Yeah, he did."

"Okay…good. Well, I need to use the rest room…I'll meet you back out there?"

"I hope so…I hear I live here." Sami shrugged, then presented her pleased with herself smirk.

Katelyn couldn't help but giggle to her smart mouth and gently slapped Sami's stomach.

"I can't stand you sometimes." She paused to lightly grab the fake beard, and pulling it back slightly she let it go, amusing herself as it snapped back onto Sami's face lightly. "This is cute, by the way." She winked before making her way to the restroom.

"I definitely think you both should hook up at least once." Trailed Nadine.

Sami heard the tail end with an arched brow as she joined them back at the fire with the small alcoholic beverage demands.

"Who should hook up?" She asked, handing the bottles to the group, before sitting back down in her camp chair and unscrewing the whiskey cap.

Nadine nodded toward the fire in Katelyn and Terri's direction.

"Those two. They've been shamelessly flirting most of the night…hook up. Feed that sexual tension, ladies."

Sami suddenly swallowed hard, dropping her stare to the bottle of whiskey not hesitating to take a few huge gulps, which numbed nothing. She dropped her head and clasped her eyes shut for a moment, waiting for the sudden ache at the thought of Katelyn and Terri hooking up to disappear. Finally, she opened them to concerning stares from Zack and Nicole.

"You don't know what you're talking about, Nadine. They're just good friends…can you drop it, please?" Insisted Nicole, her tone sharp.

Nadine sniggered. "I'm not blind…you should know by now I call it how I see it."

Nicole sucked on her teeth, before looking over at the arched brow of Sami and subtle head shake.

"You know what? You're totally right Nadine…you've been calling Sami and Erika out since Erika got here. You have a gift, girl."

Sami cleared her throat. "All right ladies…can we not do this? Please one night were y'all aren't bickering?"

Nadine snapped her neck to the side, to face Sami. "Are you seriously going to let her talk to me like that?"

Sami took in a deep breath with a shrug. "Like I said, can we not?"

Nadine quickly stood up grabbing her peacoat from the log next to Sami's chair.

"You know what…I'm sick of this, you let your friends speak to me with nothing but disrespect and you don't even attempt to correct them. I'm fucking over this." Snapped Nadine before abruptly walking away and to her car.

Sami took in another deep breath with a clenched jaw, letting her eyes remain on the fire. She said nothing before placing her bottle of Jack down by her chair and getting up to follow Nadine to her car. Katelyn's eyes scanned everyone's faces… Each one of them revealing a smirk.

"Really guys? It's not funny. Sami pays the price." She explained, before taking a sip of beer.

"Oh, fuck that, Katie. She's always out here trying to antagonize one of us, especially when Sami isn't around then acts the victim when Nicole bites at her. She needs to just leave already and go back to New York."

Katelyn arched her brow to Billy, a little taken aback but suddenly unable to feel bad for Nadine. Billy normally wouldn't talk bad on anyone unless they deserved it. She decided to nod her head and say nothing before leaning back against Terri. Enjoying the gentle shoulder rubs being offered. She was feeling her buzz more so and feeling Terri's fingers on her didn't faze her in the slightest, not like it would've if she was sober. She knew that much.

She stared over along with the others to watch the flailing arms of Nadine. Billy refused to turn the music down like Nicole had asked so they could hear what was being said. Even though he didn't like her, he didn't want to disrespect Sami's privacy either. Eventually a still clearly irate Nadine got into her car, slamming the door before spinning the wheels abruptly against the stone driveway and speeding off. Katelyn watched Sami turn back and make her way toward them, her hands stuffed in her leprechaun jumpsuit pockets. Nobody said a word when she took a seat with them. Katelyn watched her grab her bottle of Jack and take a few more generous gulps.

"Sami…I love you, but please can you be done with her already? She makes you miserable." Stated Nicole, now sitting forward on Billy's lap.

Sami raised her eyes to Nicole before pinching the bridge of her nose. "Don't worry Nic, it's a done deal."

"Wait…for real? It's over?" Inquired Zack, a not so hidden excitement in his tone.

Sami shook her head with a small smirk, knowing exactly how happy they were in that moment.

"Yes, Sir."

"I wish I could say I'm sorry…but you know I'm happy as fuck right now." Said Nicole before getting up to hug Sami.

A slightly drunken Katelyn cleared her throat as Terri's fingertips had now began lightly tracing the sides of her neck. She couldn't help but finally look at Sami, surprised that she was staring back. She saw the clenched jaw as the darks studied the wandering fingers of her friend. Sami shut her eyes slowly before getting up.

"All right y'all, this is supposed to be a damn Saint Patrick's Day celebration, can we do the most non-Irish thing and play some God damn beer pong?"

Sami recognized that seductive fire in Katelyn's eyes as Terri traced all the right places. To say it made her sick to her stomach was an understatement but this time she couldn't run… Or even show Katelyn she cared. It was too late for all of that, she knew she'd have to endure it the best way she could and that was by ignoring it as best she could.

Chapter 23

Katelyn crossed her knee over the other, gently swiping away a piece of threading from her light denim jeans as she sat between her mother and Uncle Mick outside the conference room while they waited for Nadine to call them in. She was finally beginning to feel somewhat human again after the Saint Patrick's Day celebrations. Once the beer pong table came out most of the night had become a blur. She woke up on Donna's and Zack's couch, pleading with them to fill in the blanks of the night before but even they struggled. She knew most of the night she stayed away from Sami and stuck by Terri, it seemed like the better idea. Especially after the whole Nadine fiasco. She lifted her sleeve over her watch to check the time. Sami must have been running late. Mick had asked Zack to call her, but she didn't answer. She didn't usually when she was driving. She prayed Sami hadn't decided to dip out letting her nerves get the better of her. Katelyn took in a deep breath as the conference room door opened. Nadine peered out with a small half smile toward them all.

"You guys can come in now." She said, moving to the side as everyone made their way in.

Katelyn walked around the large oval conference table and took a seat next to her Uncle with her parents, Zack, Nicole, Sophie and Donna. She took in a deep breath as butterflies swirled around her stomach. Praying her Uncle would agree to have the surgery he needed to stay alive.

Nadine buttoned her pin stripe jacket before sitting down and half smiling to everyone at the table. Katelyn noticed her eyes quickly scanning the faces present, it was obvious she was searching for Sami.

She looked toward Mick. "Okay, shall we get started?"

Mick shook his head. "No, not until Sami gets here."

Nadine checked her watch briefly, before grabbing the folder in front of her.

"I understand you want her here Mick, but we really should hear your decision. Your family has waited long enough, don't you thi—" Suddenly a light knock interrupted her.

Katelyn turned to the door, watching as Sami quietly entered, a little out of breath.

"Sorry guys, I had to take care of a few things." She explained.

"It's fine kid, take a seat." Insisted Mick, patting the seat next to him.

Sami sat down, taking in a deep breath. Katelyn observed her visible nervousness. She knew Sami adored the ground her Uncle walked on just as they all did. This very decision would affect them all in a massive way.

Nadine looked up from the folder toward Mick once again. "Okay…ready?"

Mick nodded. "I'm gonna keep this short and sweet with you all…Nadine and I have already discussed the game plan. I've decided…I'm going to go through with the procedure and have the surgery…." He paused as sighs of relief could be heard from around the conference table. He looked toward Sami, her head down and eyes shut. Lightly he brought his hand to her back, patting it. "We got this kid."

Sami looked over her shoulder at him, Katelyn swallowed a lump from her throat when she witnessed the scared bloodshot darks. She watched Sami clench her jaw, and give him a small nod, unable to muster a word.

"Don't weaken on me now kid…." He trailed.

Sami smiled, shaking her head. "Never." Said the shaken raspy voice.

"Okay, has anybody got any questions for me before we wrap this up?" Asked Nadine, her sharp tone apparent to everyone.

"Have you done this type of procedure before? What's the survival rate?" Asked Gwen.

"Yes, I've done this many times. I have a phenomenal team behind me too. The survival rate is good provided we keep him clear of any infection. He'll be monitored very closely by a very skilled team. I promise you Mrs. Jensen he is in great hands.

Katelyn took in a deep breath before squeezing Micks knee. She knew each and every one of them were scared, more so her uncle.

"Have you guys set a date for when this is all going to happen?" Asked Arthur.

Nadine nodded. "Yes, I think we agreed…" She paused to look toward Mick, "March thirty-first, correct?"

Mick nodded.

"We want to take a few more tests, check the strength of his heart, if we feel he may need the procedure earlier we will find space for him and get him in. I just need you guys to monitor him for the time being." Once again pausing, she looked toward Sami, "Even though I've told him if he feels uncomfortable in any way, he needs to contact me…you also need to contact me if you feel something just isn't right. This is a pinnacle time right now. Our window narrows the longer we leave it. He needs this time to process it and it gives us some time to monitor him more closely."

Sami nodded. "Of course…"

"Oh, and one more thing, under no circumstances is he to work the bar. I need him to do as little as possible until we get this done and for several weeks after the surgery."

"You can stay with us during recovery." Insisted Arthur.

Mick shook his head. "Absolutely not…"

"Dad, can you for once stop being so damn stubborn and do as you're told. Let us take care of you for once. Give our hearts a break…please."

Sophie's tearful plea caused everyone to clear their throats as they fought back their own tears.

Mick took a deep breath scanning all of their faces, he rolled his eyes, shaking his head.

"Okay, fine…."

Now it was Sami's turn to pat him on the back before pulling him to her, pressing their heads together as a tear fell from her nose. Everyone sat quietly, Zack wrapped his arm around Nicole and Donna who wrapped her arms around Sophie. While Arthur pulled a tearful Gwen to him, his hand reached for Katelyn's shoulder as she leaned into her mother while they watched Sami and Mick hold each other.

After a few minutes Nadine shut the folder and cleared her throat.

"I know this is a scary moment for you all, but I promise you, we will do our very best for him. I'll give you all a few minutes alone." She explained, before standing up and leaving them in the conference room.

***

Katelyn flung her small hand luggage bag on the bed. Sliding open her top drawer, she grabbed some socks and underwear, and threw them into the bag. There really wasn't any point in packing any outfits, a lot of her clothes were still in Boston. She looked over at her bed with Tara laying on her side, her palm propping her head while she surfed through her phone.

"I really wish I didn't have to go back." Said Katelyn with a slight pout.

Tara smiled. "I know honey…it's just for a few short days then you'll be home where you belong."

"I hope you're right about them being short. I just want to get into a routine here already, and get myself mentally ready for Mick's surgery, my mum and Sophie are going to need me more than ever." She replied.

Tara offered a pleased with herself grin. "I'm so relieved Mick decided to go ahead with the surgery. I had my doubts honestly…but I think Sami stepping up and telling him how she really felt, helped."

Katelyn nodded, "Agreed. I know a part of her feels bad because she didn't want to push him into doing something that could harm him, but honestly it has more potential in saving his life."

"It's going to be a long few weeks for everyone, but I have no doubt it'll all work out." She paused sitting up. "So, are you slightly nervous about possibly seeing Quinn when you get there?"

Katelyn took in a deep breath. "I won't lie, I am, and I'll never admit it to Sami…but I'm relieved she went ahead and booked seats for Nicole and Donna to be there with me…"

"You mean you wouldn't love to see and hear Sami gloat?" Tara asked through a small laughter.

Katelyn laughed rolling her eyes. "I can just see it now." She sighed heavily. "I need these next few days to fly in honestly."

Tara stood up, straightening her top before wrapping her arms around her childhood friend. "It'll be fine, honey." She pulled away holding Katelyn's stare. "If anything happens don't you dare hesitate to call someone. What time is your guys' flight?"

Katelyn nodded. "I know, don't worry." She paused, grabbing her flight itinerary from the white oak bed side table. "Eight a.m. and it leaves Friday at nine a.m. That'll give me time to get home, nap a little then go furniture shopping and get this apartment moved into and finally have my own space."

"Well, I better get going…I have an appointment with Erika, then we're going to grab a bite to eat afterwards."

Katelyn arched a suspecting brow. "Appointment with Erika? Um…is there more to this or is it purely platonic?"

Tara couldn't help but release a highly amused cackle. "She's giving me some ink on my left shoulder blade. I'm giving her free reign, I love her work…and it's purely platonic, I'm still trying to get my claws into Jordan's friend, Jamie. I swear there's just something about a woman in uniform."

Katelyn shook her head with an amused grin. "Okay, get going. I'll give you a call when I get to Boston."

Chapter 24

Katelyn looked over her shoulder at her sister and Donna, widening her eyes slightly as the nerves finally kicked in while she stood in front of her old apartment door. Trying her best to swallow her nerves she turned back and slowly put the key in the door. Unlocking the door and turning the handle, she took in a deep breath and made her way into the apartment. Quickly noting how warm it was, clearly Quinn hadn't shut off the heat, then suddenly the aroma of a roast dinner filled her senses. Briefly she turned back to notice a confused stricken Donna and Nicole.

Katelyn cleared her throat. "Hello?" She called out quietly.

She jumped slightly as a smiling Quinn peeked her head around the corner, from the kitchen.

"Hey you…" The smile soon disappearing as she watched Nicole and Donna follow Katelyn into the living room. "I…I didn't realize you were bringing company."

Katelyn rested her bag against the wall and throwing the apartment keys on the breakfast bar she shoved her hands in her black peacoat pockets, unable to hide her confused brows.

"They wanted to help me pack and get out of the Pines for a bit. I didn't realize you'd still be here..." She trailed.

"I hope we're not interrupting any plans…" Said Nicole sarcastically, while she threw her hand luggage on the couch next to her before planting herself down on it.

Quinn shook her head. "No not at all…the more the merrier." She paused looking toward Katelyn. "I knew you'd be coming so I figured I'd have a nice lunch prepared. I'm sure you're tired and hungry from the flight."

Katelyn gave a half smile to the thoughtful gesture. She shimmied off her coat and laid it along the back of the sectional. "Are you still staying here?"

"For the time being. I paid the rent up until next month. Just to give me time to look for a decent place that's relatively close to work but a little cheaper than this place."

"It's fine, the three of us can share this comfy as all hell couch, good Lord I love this thing." Explained Nicole, sprawling across the overly large brown suede sectional.

Quinn smiled. "No, no. You guys by all means take the bed, I'll take the couch. It's not a problem at all."

Katelyn caught the soft emeralds staring at her gently. Slowly she bowed out of the gentle stare, protecting herself, she knew. She still had a love for Quinn, and she hadn't let her hang around the Pines long enough to see if she would feel any lasting effects.

Quinn cleared her throat. "Can I get you guys anything to drink?"

Nicole grabbed the magazine from the glass coffee table and without giving Quinn any sort of eye contact and nodded. "Water, will do." Donna nodded for the same but gave the tall woman the respect of a small smile of acknowledgment.

Katelyn gave a subtle head shake before following Quinn into the kitchen. Watching her bend down slightly to grab the waters, she leaned her hip against the counter with crossed arms.

"Sorry about Nicole…she's just…very protective and doesn't forgive easily."

Quinn stood up and turning to Katelyn she looked down at the bottles with an apologetic smile.

"It's okay, I understand it. You don't need to apologize for her, Katie. What I did was fucked up…I hope one day she can forgive me."

Katelyn let a small smile caress her cheek. She watched as Quinn approached slowly, offering a bottle of water to her. Katelyn met the reach, grabbing the bottle she tried to pull it away noticing Quinn wouldn't let go. Forcing her eyes to meet the emeralds, Katelyn swallowed hard. She recognized the sudden want behind them. She took in a deep breath and shut her eyes.

"Please don't, Quinn…." She whispered.

Suddenly the grip loosened. She opened her eyes to the painful greens.

"I'm sorry, it's just going to take me some time, Katie."

Katelyn gave a gentle nod. "Lunch smells great by the way."

Quinn cleared her throat. "Yeah, I made a nice pork roast, roasting in some sautéed onions, peppers, and a sprinkle of my magically secret ingredient." She said, allowing a proud of yourself smile to form.

Katelyn laughed. "You'll never give that ingredient up, huh?"

"Not in a million years…here give these to the girls, I need to get the potatoes going. Then you can get back in here and help me." Stated Quinn with a wink.

Katelyn smirked, and taking the bottles of water she walked back into the living room to Donna already napping, and Nicole giggling at her phone.

"Here you go, honey. What's so funny?"

Nicole sat up reaching for the offered water. "Oh nothing, just Billy sending selfies with the others at the parlor. While Erika is the only one actually working."

"Let me see…"

Nicole turned the phone to Katelyn and slowly scrolled through the photos. Her heart suddenly jumping into her throat once her eyes caught a picture of a happy and smiling Sami as both Billy and Zack were kissing her on each cheek. She swallowed hard. A sudden pain in her chest letting her know she missed her… Katelyn quickly cleared her throat before looking away.

"Looks like they're having fun…" She trailed before finally taking a seat.

Nicole stared back at her phone, then back at Katelyn.

"Are you okay?"

She looked up, tucking a hair behind her ear. "Yeah, why?"

"You just got pale is all."

Katelyn waved away Nicole's comment before unscrewing her bottled water and taking a small sip, hoping it would wash away any remanence of the side effects of Sami. It had been two years… Would these effects ever go away? A part of her knew she was ignorant to think Sami wouldn't affect her any longer. Sami had been the only one to ever make her fall as hard as she did… The only one to make her love as hard as she did… The only one to hurt her as hard as she did. She knew she had to keep reminding herself, that no matter how different the today Sami is… What she did can never be forgotten. Forgiven? Sure. But for her own well-being, it can't be forgotten, and she knew if she let even a little bit be forgotten she'd be in a hell of a lot of more trouble than subtle side effects. Everything was going good so far. She was determined to keep it that way.

***

Katelyn let her eyes rest on the beautifully tendered pork roast as Quinn slowly drizzled her home-made gravy over it and the roasted potatoes. The aroma instantly causing her mouth to salivate. She couldn't wait to dig in. There was one thing Quinn could do and that was cook, maybe she missed that slightly about the tall woman. Their evening dinners had turned out to be one of her most favorite things once the workday had finally ended.

Quinn took a seat opposite Katelyn at their old dining table. "Please dig in you guys. I hope you enjoy it, and if you're up to it…I have some dessert in there waiting too, alongside some ice-cream."

Katelyn offered an appreciative smile toward Quinn before looking toward Donna's arched brow. She sent a gentle head shake, hoping Donna would realize it was just a harmless gesture. If anything, it was Quinn trying to make amends after their last interaction.

"I'll be real honest, Quinn…I might not like you very much, but I'll give credit where it is due… this is absolutely delicious." Stated Nicole, before taking another not so graceful mouthful of pork roast with potatoes.

Quinn smiled, with a nod. "I'll take what I can get…just know I couldn't be more sorry for what I did to your sister, Nicole."

Nicole raised her palm, insisting Quinn stop. "That bridge has burned with me Quinn…let's not pretend we can move on from this. The minute you thought it was okay to lay a single finger on my sister…we were done."

Katelyn swallowed hard before shooting a look of anger toward her sister.

"Nicole, please!" Katelyn snapped.

Quinn gently reached for Katelyn's hand, lightly tracing her thumb across the top of it.

"It's okay, Katie." She paused to look across the table at Nicole. "I understand that…just know I have some issues that I'm now seeing a therapist for. I'm not trying to make excuses, but you can't be in my line of work and not get fucked up from that."

"You never told me you got in to see a therapist." Said Katelyn, before lightly wiping her mouth with a napkin.

Quinn looked at her with a sympathetic smile. "Katie, losing you put shit into perspective for me. After that all happened, I knew enough was enough because I'd finally lost the one person who meant more to me, than life itself." She finished before giving Katelyn's hand a small squeeze.

Katelyn suddenly felt a slight discomfort as her eyes trailed to Nicole's eyeroll. Regardless she couldn't help but feel her heart leap slightly into her throat. Quinn always knew what to say to make her completely submit so effortlessly. She cleared the uneasiness from her throat, not knowing what to say and she didn't want to say anything that would give Quinn even the slightest bit of hope that there could be a chance of them ever getting back what they had. Suddenly Quinn excused herself from the table, Katelyn caught the stares from her sister and friend.

"Let's not, guys."

Donna shook her head. "Please tell me you're not falling for this façade?"

Katelyn tucked a hair behind her ear and grabbed her wine before taking a lengthy sip. Lowering the glass, she noticed Donna still glaring.

"Of course not, Don. I'm glad she's actually trying to work through some of her issues. Is it so bad that a part of me wants to be there for her for that?"

Donna sighed with a subtle head shake. "No…but all I ask is to be careful when it comes to her. I just can't shake the bad feeling I get around her."

"I'm with Donna on this one…something's just not ri—" Nicole stopped as Quinn walked back in with another bottle of wine for the table.

"Does anyone want some more, there's a bunch left?" Quinn asked.

Donna sat back further in her chair before gently throwing the napkin next to her nearly empty plate.

"No thank you, I'm stuffed. I don't think I even have enough room for dessert but thank you." She stated, lightly rubbing her stomach.

Quinn nodded toward everyone's dismissal of another plate and took a seat opposite Katelyn before filling up their glasses of red.

"How's your Uncle Mick holding up?"

"He's doing good, he thankfully agreed to go for the surgery. That's happening March thirty-first so the next couple weeks are going to be stressful, but he's going to stay with my parents." Replied Katelyn, grabbing her newly filled glass of red and taking a small sip.

"Wow…what made him agree to go through with it? I thought he was dead set against it."

Katelyn cleared her throat, "Well—"

"Sami." Nicole interrupted sharply.

Quinn stopped mid sip moving her glass from her face. Her eyes shifting to Katelyn's almost now timid browns.

She cleared her throat. Resting her fingers gently on top of Katelyn's. "I'm glad to hear someone could get through to him."

Katelyn nodded, pulling her hand from under Quinn's. "If you guys would excuse me, I'm going to get some fresh air."

She pushed her chair back and without saying another word she got up from the table, grabbing her glass and making her way out onto the small apartment patio. The sun was tucking itself behind the city skyline in the distance was always a settling sight, but nothing like the mountain tops back home. She took in a deep breath letting the cold crisp air move through her lungs and holding it for a second, she slowly released it to watch her breath dance away from her and into the soon to be night sky, appreciating the serenity of the orange sky cascading across the darkened clouds, blanketing them almost. She had to get up from the table, she knew Quinn was desperately trying to reach to her, for something… Anything… To show she still felt the same. She knew she loved her; she couldn't switch off her emotions just like that. But she also knew she didn't want to be afraid of the person she loved, and quite frankly she couldn't push away the small fear she'd now built toward Quinn, who at one point seemed perfect for her.

"Are you okay?" The soft whisper asked, forcing Katelyn to look over her shoulder as her arms rested against the patio railing.

Katelyn left a small smile before turning back to the sight of the City skyline being blanketed by its shadows.

"I want to say yes, Don…"

"What's wrong?" She asked resting her glass carefully on the railing.

Katelyn turned to Donna, leaning her elbow on the railing and resting her cheek against her wine glass.

"I just wanted to come here, pack the rest of my stuff, with no issues at all. Now I have Quinn here trying her absolute best to remind me how sweet and amazing she can be…."

Donna shrugged. "I noticed…listen Katie, no one will tell you no, you can't be with her. You're grown and if she truly makes you happy then we have to step back and let you make your own decisions. Regardless how we feel about her, we love you. Maybe what she did, was a one-time thing…but again maybe it wasn't."

Katelyn shook her head. "No…I can't, I've seen a side of her that scares me. I just hate that I feel bad, but mostly I hate that I'm still tempted by her."

Donna rested her hand on Katelyn's shoulder. "Katie, that's perfectly normal. You can't just shut your love off for someone, but you also can't let your love allow them to treat you any old way."

She sighed. "I know, I know. It'll be easier once I'm back home. Distracted by work, your wedding plans and of course Pines in the summer."

"As soon as we get home and get Mick better, we'll totally get deep into wedding plans because there's so much to do," she paused releasing a small excited squeal. "We'll take care of that little heart of yours, honey."

Chapter 25

Katelyn got back to the apartment. Throwing her keys on the breakfast bar, she moved to the coffee pot, and reaching for a mug on the rack she slowly poured her third cup of the day. Noting to herself the closet was the last of her stuff that needed packed into a case, thankfully. Leaning back slightly, she looked through the kitchen cut out to see Nicole passed out on the sectional. Off into the distance she could hear the shower running. She checked her watch it was already noon. She knew the girls had a late-night finishing off the wine with Quinn, their laughter had eventually sent her off to sleep. Although pleading with her to stay up with them she had to decline. She had a meeting with her old boss Henry Arnold to personally hand him her resignation. The meeting had gone a lot better than she expected, Henry had made one last plea deal to move her straight into the Senior partner position with a very generous offer of a brand-new penthouse suite looking over the beautiful Boston Common. She was truly honored, but he wasn't surprised when she declined, insuring her that she always had a place at his Arnold & Bayer firm.

She pulled out the stool by the breakfast bar, and grabbed the newspaper, before taking a sip of coffee.

"Morning gorgeous."

Katelyn looked over her shoulder with a smile toward an oncoming Donna, her wet hair in a messy bun while she poured herself a coffee.

"Afternoon." Katelyn smirked. "Are we hungover?"

Donna left a lazy smile against her cheek as she cupped her coffee between her palms and gently blew at the steam while leaning her back against the counter.

"Not quite…I can't say the same for Nicole. Her vomiting in the toilet is what woke me up."

Katelyn giggled. "Quinn's a true Boston girl, y'all should've known better than to have agreed to keep drinking with her."

Donna giggled and took a seat next to Katelyn. "Oh, she could drink any man under the table. I have no doubt about that." She took another sip. "So how did it go at the firm?"

"Really well, a little upsetting but we ended on a good note." She explained.

Suddenly the front door opened, both looked over their shoulder's to Quinn entering, with a brown paper bag in one hand and four coffee's in the other.

Katelyn let her eyes enjoy Quinn in her pristine baby blue shirt tucked into her navy-blue dress pants. Her badge tucked just above her hip bone, and her gun hanging from the other hip. She took in a deep breath, the sight of Quinn certainly still pleased her, she wasn't blind.

"Hey ladies, I brought lunch."

Donna hopped off the stool before digging into the bag of bagels, pulling out the plastic cutlery and cream cheese.

"You're a life saver."

Katelyn smiled. "I don't think Nicole will be joining us."

Quinn laughed, pulling her gun from its holster and setting it by the coffee pot.

"Self-inflicted, she insisted she could handle it and you know me…I always like to prove people wrong." Explained Quinn with a wink.

"I had you beat, until you pulled out that five hundred-year-old whiskey." Groaned an awakened Nicole, sitting up from the sectional. Katelyn couldn't prevent the giggle at the sight of Nicole's disheveled hair and the eyeliner that now masked her cheeks. She was a hot mess.

"You could've said no…" Trailed an amused Quinn before taking a bite from her cinnamon bagel.

"I don't back down from a challenge, honey."

Swinging her legs over and onto the floor, she shoved her blanket to the side and got up to join them at the breakfast bar. Quinn pulled the coffee she got Nicole from its holder and slid it to her. Katelyn took in a slight sigh of relief when noticing her sister and Quinn could actually be in the same room, be cordial to one another, and have a decent conversation.

"God, my head…Can someone please put the gun away? I get it you're in law enforcement, but don't you have a safe for that or something?" Nicole groaned, squeezing her temples between her palms.

Quinn leaned around and behind Katelyn to pull open a drawer and letting the bottle of pills slide to the front, she grabbed them and finally put them in front of Nicole.

"Here, take a couple of those. As for the gun, it stays where I can see it."

"It's true and she carries it with her everywhere, store, bars…concerts." Stated Katelyn, rolling her eyes.

"Thanks." Nicole popped the cap off the pill bottle. "This doesn't mean I like you by the way. Seriously you carry your gun everywhere?" She asked, before popping two ibuprofens in her mouth and swallowing them.

"Yes, I do…even brought it to a friend's wedding. You just never know, and you know I'm best friend material." Said Quinn, sending a sassy smirk toward Katelyn.

"I'd love to see th—" Katelyn was interrupted by Donna's phone vibrating against the breakfast bar. Her eyes scanned over the screen to see Sami's name across it. Her heart instantly leapt into her throat. Pressing her fingers against her neck, she looked up at Donna as she grabbed her phone.

"Hey Sami, everything okay?"

Katelyn sat and watched Donna mindlessly walking down the hall and into the bedroom. Her attention soon taken as Quinn wrapped her finger's over her shoulder squeezing it softly before getting up to put her dish in the sink. Drying her hands on the kitchen towel she threw it gently next to the sink.

"Can I take you out to dinner tonight? I know you're leaving early tomorrow…" Asked Quinn.

Katelyn took in a deep breath. "I don't think that's a good idea Quinn…' She said softly, nervously tucking a hair behind her ear.

"Why? It's an innocent dinner between two friends." Insisted Quinn.

Katelyn cocked a brow. "Is it though?"

Quinn shrugged. "You want us to be friends…I want you in my life…so it's whatever you want it to be Katie."

"Well, this is getting awkward. I'm going to take a shower." Said Nicole, before slowly getting up from the stool and letting her small groans follow her down the hall.

Katelyn looked over her shoulder to watch Nicole keeping her balance with her hand pressing against the wall to guide her to the bathroom. She smiled before turning back to a staring Quinn.

"I don't want things to be awkward between us Quinn. Dinner just isn't a good time, I'm not there yet and neither are you."

Quinn came closer, pressing her palm flat against the breakfast bar, bringing her face a little closer to Katelyn's. Her emerald eyes demanding Katelyn's browns to stay on them.

"We're not there yet because there's still something between us Katie…why don't we stop kidding ourselves and try again?"

Katelyn narrowed her eyes to the daring greens. "Don't do this Quinn…."

"Katie, we both love each other. I'm miserable without you. We still effect each other…I can see it all in those eyes." Explained Quinn, leaving a small smirk against the corner of her mouth.

"I can't just switch off how I feel about you Quinn, but I've told you before…I can't get over the version of you I saw that night at my parent's house." Insisted Katelyn, before clearing her throat.

"Katie, I'm seeing a therapist to address my issues. I promise you'll never have to witness that person again. I don't know who I was that night, it wasn't me…you know the real me." Pleaded Quinn.

Katelyn swallowed hard. She wouldn't deny that Quinn still affected her, of course she did. The Quinn she knew before that night at her parents was the perfect partner and lover. But Quinn had scared her…and she knew if she could do it once, she could do it again. Her walls had been built and she wasn't even sure she was willing to let Quinn try and knock them down.

She stood up from her stool and pushed it under the breakfast bar. Keeping her eyes on the pleading emeralds, she took in a deep breath.

"Regardless what might still be between us Quinn, that night happened, and it can't be taken back. Right now, I'm not there or even willing to be there with you, you scared me more than anyone ever has. I'm not saying it's completely off the table with us, but for right now…it's just not going to happen, Quinn." She paused to Quinn's hopeful smile. "Quinn…I'm not trying to give you hope either. I don't know if I'll ever be able to be that way with you again, you broke my heart when you put your hands on me like that. We all know how I get when you break my heart Quinn…" She sighed heavily, "I can't guarantee you anything right now, but if someone happens to come along…move on Quinn. God…I don—" Quinn's raised palm interrupted her.

"I understand Katie…" She swallowed hard. "I guess it's a whatever happens, happens kind of deal. Just know…I'm always going to love you and I can't see that ever going away. So, if at any point in this friendship you think you'll want to try again, don't you dare hesitate in telling me. Hell, even if I'm with someone, I don't give a fuck." Quinn finished with a small laughter.

Katelyn laughed lightly, shaking her head. "Thank you for understanding."

Quinn moved around the breakfast bar and wrapping her arms around Katelyn she kissed the top of her head. Katelyn took in a deep breath and slowly closed her eyes, taking in the full embrace. Her eyes opened when she heard Donna purposely clearing her throat while she walked down the hall. Quickly she broke from Quinn's arms to look over her shoulder, to see Donna shoving her phone in her jeans pocket.

"Everything okay?" Katelyn asked, shifting herself further from Quinn, and flicking her hair nervously over her shoulder, before crossing her arms. She could see Donna's suspicion of the embrace she had just witnessed. Not only did she not want to give Quinn the wrong idea but she didn't want anyone else getting it wrong either.

"Yeah, everything's fine. She was just making sure we were okay and letting me know Erika's nephew is over for a visit. So, his little butt is keeping them on their toes." Explained Donna, with a small laugh while grabbing her coffee.

"Jesus, does she think I'd hurt you guys or something?" Questioned Quinn, her hands resting against her hips.

Donna nodded. "Do you forget what happened when y'all met? She's very protective…"

Katelyn turned to Quinn, pressing her palm against her chest. "It's going to take some time, Quinn."

She watched Quinn take in a long deep breath, then sigh. "I make one mistake…" She whispered.

"And one mistake that should've never occurred, Quinn." Snapped Donna.

"Okay, it's time we all moved on from it, guys. Quinn has apologized, and she's trying so hard to fix her wrongs." She eyeballed them both. "Everyone deserves a second chance…Quinn is going to stay in my life, and when we get back to the Pines, I'll be sure to let them all know that too. So, when she comes to visit." She looked at Quinn, "Because I want that…" Moving her stare back to Donna, she watched her friends subtle head shake. "I want you guys to respect my friendship with her, and my wishes, Don. More importantly I'm going to need your help in that happening. Sami will listen to you, and both Zack and Billy will listen to her…I'll take care of the girls." She finished.

Donna cocked her brow, pushing her tongue against a cheek with slightly narrowed eyes. "If that's what you wish…"

"If she wishes what?" Asked Nicole, wrapping her hair in a towel as she made her way to them.

Katelyn took in a deep breath. "That you all respect Quinn and my friendship with her, especially when she comes to the Pines to visit."

Nicole shrugged, reaching for her coffee. "You're grown…but if she lays her hands on you again…"

"That won't happen, Nicole…I royally fucked up and I'll always punish myself for that. I'm just happy she wants to remain in my life, if only as my friend."

"I don't care if you'll always punish yourself, Quinn. That's on you, just don't lay a finger on her, that's all I ask. Trust me, it's for your own good, and no that's not a threat honey. It's facts." She pointed toward Katelyn but kept her eyes on Quinn. "Sami will always protect every hair on her head, alongside my brother and everyone else in the Pines…whether you like it or not." She rested her hands on her hips, moving her glare to Katelyn, "And while we're on the matter of Sami, she has to respect Sami…" Demanded Nicole.

"I will…provided she doesn't try to play Katelyn like sh—"

"Let me stop you right there." Nicole snapped, with a pointed finger. "You weren't there…you know nothing of what really happened. You have my sister's side of the story which is the only side she knows." She looked at Katelyn. "There was no playing, Sami fucked up…but she's not this terrible heartless son of bitch."

"Nicole…nobody is trying to make her out to be a terrible or heartless person." Insisted Katelyn, her arms now crossed.

She glared at Quinn. "You've got a lot to prove in my books, just know that."

Quinn nodded. "Nicole, all I ask is for the chance to prove to you that I'm not the person I was that night."

Nicole shrugged. "Time will tell."

Chapter 26

"I can't thank you enough for this, Sam. My apartment is just too small." Said Erika, falling down on Sami's sofa.

Sami smiled, handing her a bottle of water before sitting down on her recliner.

"Don't mention it. It'll be a nice change having you guys here. Did your sister mention how long she'd be in Japan for?" Asked Sami, cracking the lid from her water bottle.

Erika shook her head. "No but usually it's a couple of weeks…don't get me wrong I'm so happy her company has her taking charge of their clients, but little Greyson…he's only three…he struggles adapting to not having her around and by the time she comes home, he's already attached to me and it's hell watching him leave with her."

Sami nodded, looking over her shoulder to the cracked door. Greyson had finally drifted off for his nap. Her being around kids was unusual and not something she thought she'd ever be accustomed to, but when she finally got him off to sleep, she couldn't deny the pride that erupted in her chest.

"Well, y'all can stay here for as long as you need to."

"I promise, we won't interrupt your work or your peace and quiet. There is a daycare that I'll take him during the day, so it won't mess with my ability to run the parlors."

Sami smiled. "Don't stress yourself out, there's enough of us who can work our schedules around the kid if daycare doesn't work out, and you can take days off. While you're both here, this is your guys' home just as much as it is mine. If I want a little bit of peace, I'll just go down to the lake and fish."

Erika's phone buzzed. Reading the text, she looked up toward Sami taking a sip of her water.

"Oh, the girls are coming over, is that okay? If not we can go somewhere else."

Sami's brow arched, "You don't have to ask but who exactly are the girls?"

"Don't get excited." She laughed to Sami's mischievous smirk. "Donna, Katelyn and Nicole. I did talk to your sister last night."

"Oh yeah?"

Erika nodded. "Quinn laid it on thick with Katelyn I guess."

"That's not surprising…" Sami trailed.

"Donna said she's pretty sure they're going to get back together."

Sami's stomach suddenly sank. She swallowed her discontent. "Quinn just needs to watch herself if they do."

Erika grinned. "Oh, Sami the protective one."

Sami smirked, before getting up from the recliner. "I guess I should go to the bar and get it ready for tonight, especially before those troublemaker's get here."

Erika stood up and walking toward Sami she gently grabbed Sami's hands intertwining their fingers. The two stood for a moment while their eyes slowly dueled. Sami clenched her jaw, taking in those tempting blues. Letting the corner of her lips curl slightly, Erika gently placed a kiss against Sami's cheek, purposely holding it there as she leaned in a little closer. Sami shut her eyes for a moment. She'd always found Erika attractive, the two of them knew of their sexual attraction not to mention the tension when they were alone for more than a few minutes. But of course, the timing was never right… Until now.

Sami took in a deep breath before a soft knock at the front door interrupted their seductive stare. She watched Erika push on her tippy toes to look over Sami's shoulder, a wide smile appearing.

Sami cleared her disrupted throat; Erika's suggestive stare had lit a small spark inside her. It had been a couple weeks since she'd had another woman in her bed, since her break up with Nadine she swore not to be how she was before and try to fill the emptiness inside her by filling her bed with another woman. She just wasn't too sure how long she'd be able to resist Erika's advances because they were coming, she was sure of it. She looked over her shoulder to an entering Donna, Nicole and Katelyn.

Turning back to look at Erika, she watched her bite down on her cherry red lip, as a frustrated sigh escaped. Sami clenched her jaw offering a small wink to confirm her subtle frustration at the interruption.

"Not interrupting anything, are we?" Asked Nicole suggestively.

Erika dropping Sami's hands, she ran her fingers through her silver streaked hair. "I'd be lying if I said no…"

Sami laughed, before wrapping an arm over Donna and placing a kiss on her sister's head.

"All right ladies, as much as I'd love to stay and listen to y'all gossip, I gotta get to the bar." She looked back at Erika. "If you need anything for Greyson, just call me and I'll get it to you."

Sami turned to grab her keys and caught Katelyn staring at her, with an almost blank expression. Sami Scrunched her brows together, sending a small wave to interrupt the woman's daze.

"Hey you…" She said softly, while the others made their way into the kitchen.

Sami's gentle whisper pulled Katelyn from her state of bemusement. Walking in and seeing Erika and Sami in a somewhat intimate embrace caught her off-guard, a lot more than she'd expected. She'd seen Sami with Nadine but if she was honest with herself, she never saw much intimacy between the two. But catching Sami and Erika, so close… Knowing all too well what was going through their minds, pulled a slight jealousy from her core, something she hadn't experienced in a long time.

She cleared the sudden resentment from her throat. "Hey…not staying?" She asked, noticing Sami throwing her hoodie on.         

Sami shook her head. "No…I…just said I had to go sort out the bar. I take it your mind was somewhere else?"

"Oh, sorry…yeah you could say that." Katelyn sent a somewhat nervous smile.

Sami gave an understanding nod. "Erika did mention you and Quinn might be reconciling. Now Sami cleared the bitterness from her throat.

"Did she now?" She smiled. "It's complicated, for me it's not completely off the table but I also don't want to give her hope that there will be an us again," She shook her head, and ran her fingers through her hair letting it fall over one shoulder. "It's just complicated."

"Love is never easy." Sami said softly, clenching her jaw.

Katelyn dropped their short stare, she swallowed hard before shoving the inside of her cheek between her teeth. Sami tilted her head, with a small suspicion. She knew all too well that little quirk in Katelyn meant something else was on her mind.

"Wanna talk about it?"

Katelyn looked up to the concerned darks. She shook her head, crossing her arms and tucking some hair behind an ear. "No…no. Go take care of the bar, I think we're going to drop by later."

Sami looked at her watch. "Sounds good. Regardless how I feel Kate…if you need to talk about her, I'm here."

Katelyn's heart jumped into her throat, her eyes widening. "Regardless how you feel?"

"About Quinn…" Replied Sami with an arched brow.

Katelyn swallowed her sudden shameful embarrassment. "Oh, thanks, I just want to not think about her for a while." She smiled, slapping Sami lightly on the arm. "Okay, stop procrastinating and get to the bar."

Sami smirked, sending a small wink before lightly brushing her fingers against Katelyn's elbow and giving it a small squeeze. Katelyn closed her eyes and took in a deep breath as the front door shut. This soft side to Sami was seriously making her question the strength she thought she built up against her. She'd wanted a friendship from Sami from the very beginning, now it wasn't seeming like such a good idea. Was she just destined to always fall in love and be powerless to the enemy of her every moral? She walked into the kitchen to Erika pouring coffees for them. She took a seat next to Donna sitting at the breakfast nook.

"You look a little pale. You okay?" Asked Donna quietly.

Katelyn could only muster a weakened smile. "I'll be fine…"

Donna shifted her eyes to an approaching Erika and Nicole before whispering, "Wanna talk about it later?"

Katelyn tucked a hair behind her ear before leaning back and nodding subtly toward Donna as Erika put her coffee in front of her then joined them in the nook with creamer and sugar.

"So…what was that we walked into?" Asked Nicole slapping a few sugars together before ripping the top of the wrappers and pouring them into her cup.

Erika laughed. "Just a little harmless teasing. You know me."

"Harmless huh?"

Katelyn looked up through her lashes, studying the mischievous grin from Erika. Her stomach instantly sinking at the mere thought of her and Sami. Jesus Christ with this shit again.

Erika shrugged. "Nadine's no longer in the picture…we know there's tension there. If we just so happened to take care of it, I won't say no. It's been a while…" Erika winked followed by a sly laughter.

Donna shook her head laughing. "Jesus, it only took twenty years…but do you think it'll be a one hit wonder?"

Erika waved Donna's question away. "We know she'll come back begging for more…" She joked.

The table laughed, even Katelyn mustered up a small giggle even though the entire conversation turned her stomach into knots. She swallowed her jealousy into the pit of her stomach. Hating herself for even allowing herself to be affected.

"How long has your sister abandoned Greyson for this time?" Asked Nicole sipping her coffee.

Erika shook her head and shrugged. "I don't know, a couple weeks maybe. Sami's been great and said there's no rush, I just don't want to cramp her style with a kid living here. I know it's going to be one hell of an adjustment for her."

"Don't be silly, Erika, you should know better." Said Donna, grabbing a cookie and snapping it in half, giving Katelyn the other half.

"It'll be nice to witness a domesticated Sami, and it'd be nice to have a little one running around." Stated Nicole.

"I never in my life thought I'd even hear domesticated and Sami in the same sentence." Added Katelyn.

They laughed. "I don't know…for you Katie I think she would've welcomed it."

Katelyn arched a brow at her sister. "Sure…" She trailed.

Nicole giggled to her sister's sarcasm. "I'm serious."

Katelyn rolled her eyes. "Can we not?"

Erika sighed. "I will say this Katie, regardless if you want to hear it or not—"

"You're right, I probably don't." Katelyn interrupted.

Erika reached her hand to Katelyn's that wrapped around her cup. Forcing Katelyn to look up at her.

"When I got here…she was still all fucked up because of you, you had my girl hooked."

Katelyn swallowed hard. "You literally just talked about finally sleeping with her…now this."

"Katelyn, I would never sleep with her if I thought for a second, you'd both give it another try…"

Katelyn shook her head. "Erika…sleep with her. I honestly don't care. The only thing between her and I is a seriously fucked up history that I'm pretty sure neither one of us want to revisit. Just don't get hurt by her, please."

Donna giggled. "Oh, honey. You don't have to worry about Sami hurting her…"

"Whys that?" Katelyn asked confused.

"When I say no strings, I actually mean it."

"Then why hasn't there been anything between you both before now? I know you said the timing was never right but…" Questioned Katelyn finishing her coffee.

"Honey, I don't deal with drama and Sami always had a girl on her arm, regardless if it was no strings, there would've always been drama."

Katelyn laughed. "You do have a point there it just took her a long ass time and a long list of women to see that her no strings condition meant nothing."

Erika shrugged. "It's just a shame that y'all wont revisit it…you'd make a super cute couple."

Katelyn rolled her eyes. "Okay, I'll say this one time...Sami and I were an absolute disaster, we were naive to think we'd ever have a happy ever after, did we love each other? I know I did, more than I've ever loved anyone, but she ripped my heart out of my fucking chest…" She paused to Nicole's eyes suddenly filling. "I was dumb and let her in and I gave her the very best of me…my heart, and my soul, she robbed those from me. I was intoxicated by everything about her…I turned out to just be another victim. I've said it from day one, if she truly loved me, she would've never slept with Tara. I'll never see it any other way. But we sit here now, with a friendship we're working hard to build on for the sake of our fami—" She paused suddenly to Erika's excessive throat clearing and Nicole's eyes widening. Suddenly her stomach sank when she finally followed their stairs to the archway of the kitchen. There stood Sami, her expression completely punctured. Her jaw clenching back her tears. Her blood shot darks penetrating Katelyn's heart almost instantly. Her mouth fell open.

"Sam…" She whispered softly.

Sami said nothing through her weakened blinks and put her palm up to Katelyn. She trailed her darks to Erika and placed a bag on the breakfast bar.

"I got Greyson this little remote-control dump truck…give it to him when he wakes up." Explained Sami, before turning and leaving the kitchen.

Katelyn looked toward them all with horror. Donna instantly began rubbing her back.

"It's okay, Katie. I promise, she'll be fine." She whispered.

Katelyn placed her hand over her mouth, shaking her head. "I…she didn't need to hear all of that, Don."

"Don't beat yourself up, Katie. You never intended for her to hear all of that…" Explained Nicole.

Katelyn put her head in her palms, her nauseated stomach overwhelming her. No, she never intended on Sami hearing it… Ever hearing the full extent of her hurt. As much as Sami had hurt her, she never wanted to hurt her back. She groaned at the thought of just as they were finally getting somewhere, she went and probably fucked it all up.

Chapter 27

Katelyn sat in the back corner by the pool tables, she'd scanned some of the faces on the way in, but Sami didn't seem to be around. She sighed and swallowed hard. She still felt awful from the small mishap at the cabin earlier that day. She took in a deep breath as Nicole and Donna approached with their drinks, Terri trailing behind with a smile. Katelyn smiled back as Terri took a seat next to her.

"Hey beautiful." Said Terri with a wink.

Katelyn gave a small smile and a light nudge, saying nothing she reached for her Gin & Tonic.

"How did the visit at Boston go?" Asked Terri, taking off her jacket and laying it across the back of her chair.

"Fine, I'm just glad to get back. The girls and I went and ordered furniture for my apartment today, that's all being delivered tomorrow."

Terri nodded, taking a sip of beer. "That's good, well if you need any help, let me know, I'll come right over. Hopefully it doesn't take you too long to get settled in and get your routine."

Katelyn gave her an appreciative smile. Terri always knew Katelyn was a stickler for routine.

"I start at the firm on Monday, which will be nice to finally get back into all of that. I've certainly missed it, and then next Monday we have Mick's surgery. It's going to be a rough few weeks that's for sure."

"Oh, yeah. I forgot all about his surgery. Well, I'll be right here for you guys if you need anything at all. I'm literally down the hall from you now so don't hesitate. Knock on my door day or night. It's just nice to finally have you back home." Stated Terri with a wink.

Katelyn scrunched her nose before noticing Billy walk back from behind the bar approaching them to give Nicole a small kiss. To say he looked pissed was a bit of an understatement. She cocked her brow at him.

"Has something happened at the parlor?" Nicole asked, drinking her bloody Mary.

He shook his head and took a seat next to them. "No, everything's fine there. Zack and I have been holding down the fort. I was trying to tell her about the issues with the new kid and she." He paused taking in a deep breath. "She's just in a foul ass mood." He snapped.

Katelyn cleared her throat. "Yeah, sorry. That's probably my fault…"

Billy narrowed his eyes. "I should've known you had something to do with it."

"What do you mean?" Questioned Katelyn, her tone suspicious.

"Anytime she'd be like this y'all usually fought about something…" He stated, taking his beer from Zack.

Zack sat down next to Donna, wiping his brow. Katelyn noted how exhausted they both looked.

"I'll fix it, Bill. Is she alone in the back?"

"Fix what?" Zack asked, wrapping his arm over Donna.

"Sami's foul ass attitude." Answered Billy.

"Ah." He looked at Katelyn. "What'd you do?"

Everyone giggled forcing Katelyn to roll her eyes and get up from their table.

"It's nothing, I'll be right back."

Finally making it down to the poorly lit hallway she knocked on the office door. Waiting patiently to hear Sami tell her to come in, but it never came. She bit her lip, slightly nervous to knock again, but she did… Four knocks this time. Pressing her ear closer to the door there was still a silence. She shook her head, she hadn't missed Sami being pissed, that's for sure. Taking in a deep breath she pushed down the handle and nudged the door open. She peered around the door, and there was Sami sitting behind her scattered with papers desk, her eyes glued to the laptop.

Katelyn cleared her throat. "Hey…" She said softly.

Sami didn't shift her eyes from the screen in front of her. Katelyn took in a deep breath and finally presented herself fully from behind the door, before leaning her back against it, pushing it shut. She stood for a moment, waiting for Sami to finally acknowledge her presence, but she never did.

"Sam…" She made sure to sharpen her tone this time.

"Hm?" Sami's eyes remained on the laptop.

"Please talk to me."

Finally, Sami looked up. Her darks noticeably callous,

"What Kate? I'm busy right now."

Katelyn pushed off the door and grabbed her Uncle's chair to sit. She rolled a little closer to Sami's desk.

"Let's talk about earlier, please."

Sami's head moved back and forth between papers and her screen. "I think you said everything you needed to, unless you have more to get off your chest…by all means, don't hold back."

Katelyn rolled her eyes. "I'm pretty sure you caught everything. I never wanted you to hear any of that, it's in the past. I only brought it up to them because they kept going on about us."

Sami looked up with narrowed eyes, the pitiless in the greys bringing a nervousness to Katelyn.

"Hearing it was never my issue, I know what I did to you, because I did it to myself too…but the fact you doubt how much I felt for you…After your birthday with Jordan…I was hurting. Maybe it wasn't the best way to deal with my hurt, but I hate to break it to you sweetheart being in love and being hurt isn't something I've been very accustomed to."

Katelyn's heart without fail leapt up into her throat, causing her to suddenly become breathless. She swallowed her throbbing heart while trying to get her senses back. Sami's words had without fail, caused a surprising uproar of emotions.

She raised herself up from her uncle's chair and ran her fingers through her hair, keeping her back to Sami as she looked up at the white spackled ceiling, biting hard on her bottom lip trying desperately to calm her throbbing heart. She could feel herself become powerless. Tears wanted to form but she did everything she could right then to forbid them.

"Sam…I didn't come here to debate this with you. I simply wanted to come and apologize…how I see things and how you see them, I mean saw things…between us will always be complete opposites." Stated Katelyn, clamping her eyes shut, hating her trembling voice… The aftermath of her unstable breaths.

It was Sami's turn to stand up. "Why do you refuse to accept I loved you?"

Katelyn turned sharply her cheek firmly clamped between her teeth.

"How can you say you loved me when you slept with my best friend? Knowing full and well you had my whole heart…you had me hooked, firmly fucking hooked…"

"I told you I was hurting Kate…I just wanted to be numb to you, I wanted to be numb by it all. I was already fighting the fact we could never be together. I wanted you out of my heart and head, if only for a fucking moment. It was torturous." Replied Sami, her hands lazily gripping her hips.

"And did it work?"

Sami sighed. "Not even a little bit…" Her greys weakened and dropped to the floor. "It…" Sami looked up at Katelyn's pained browns. "To this very day…you haunt me…"

"I can't hear this…" Katelyn clamped her eyes shut and swallowed her deepened breaths.

Sami drew closer, Katelyn backed up until the door stopped her. She put her hand out, pointing toward Sami. "Sam, don't…"

Sami halted, clenching her jaw. "I think you need to leave."

Katelyn closed her eyes as that once forgotten ache consumed her senses, she swallowed hard against her beating chest, her breaths at a frenzy. She knew exactly why Sami needed her out of the office, the haunting greys presented that torturous want that Katelyn hadn't witnessed in so long but still desperately ached for.

"Kate…get out." Said the now defeated whisper.

Sami shut her eyes, dropping her head and collapsing back onto her desk, her hands firmly on her knees, squeezing them tightly. She'd done what she swore she wouldn't do and that was show she still felt something for the woman in front of her. She never wanted her to know she affected her in the slightest, but no matter how hard she tried at that moment, she couldn't hold the haunting ache in when confronted by the catalyst to her inner turmoil.

Katelyn sent challenging narrowed eyes, shaking her head. "Just when I witness those eyes…showing me…" She sighed, realizing she was about to say too much. "I remember back to what you did and realize you just ache to get me out of your system."

Sami looked up with confusion written all over her face. "What are you talking about?"

"Sam when are you going to see, like myself and some around here that I'm no more special than the array of women you've had in your bed…you only think you loved me because you ache have never had me exactly how you've had everyone else. You can't possibly have loved me the way I loved you because you simply would've never slept with my best friend. I can forgive and move on, but I'll never be able to forget that fact…"

Sami's sigh was soon followed by a groan. "You really think I feel all of this bullshit for you because I haven't slept with you?" She threw her hands up. "You know what, you're right…it's all about the chase and wanting what I can't have. You have me all figured the fuck out. Now, please…leave."

"Wait…feel?" Caught Katelyn, suddenly winded.

A knock at the door forced Katelyn to move aside as Zack peeked his head around. She watched his eyes glue on a deflated Sami then to her. His brows scrunched together as he moved past the door, keeping it ajar.

"Everything okay?" He asked, keeping his wary eyes on Katelyn.

Katelyn nodded. "Yeah, couldn't be better, we just needed to finally air out some home truths." She grabbed the door, pulling it open and giving her brother a small kiss against his five o'clock shadow. "I'm gonna head back out there, I'll see you when you come out."

He nodded. "Terri's out there asking for you…"

He watched Katelyn smile and finally walk back out to the bar, turning back to Sami he noticed her eyes remaining on the floor as she sat hunched on the edge of her desk.

He shut the door behind him. "Sami…what's going on?"

Sami looked up to him, her injured stare hitting him in the gut.

"Nothing, Zack. I just need a minute." She looked at her watch. "Tell Sophie she can join you guys, I'll take over the bar. I'm done with most of the paperwork and orders."

He approached her squeezing her shoulder. "When you're ready to talk about it, I'm here Sam. I know you're trying your best to hold it together right now…especially when it comes to Katelyn. For the most part you're good at hiding it, but sometimes I catch it…don't try and hide it from me Sami, I know she's my sister but you're my best friend, I know you a little more than you'd like me to."

She clenched her jaw looking up at him, her eyes now bloodshot. "I'm sorry Zack…she's killing me, and it's not even her, it's all me. I can't shake her off when it's all I want…" She groaned, pressing her temples against her palms.

Zack stood over her rubbing her back and resting his forehead against the back of Sami's head while she remained hunched over.

"I wish she could see Sami…there's nothing more in this world that I want. I'm sorry, but I'll be here every day helping you get where you need to be."

Sami nodded with a clenched jaw and took in a deep breath.

"Okay, go out there and have fun, I'll be out soon."

Zack gave her a sorrowful smile and a small nod.

Chapter 28

Sami passed another poured beer to one of the waiting patrons. The bar had started to pick up, music was blaring, people were dancing and having a great time. She'd refused Zack, Donna and Sophie's help insisting they enjoy the Saturday night shenanigans with everyone else. She enjoyed being busy, it took her mind off the haunting images of Katelyn cozying up to Terri while they played doubles at the pool table with Jordan and Sophie. Erika had text, saying she was going to be there soon, letting Sami know her parents begged for Greyson to stay the night. She couldn't help but smile, she knew they desperately wanted to be grandparents, never failing to let Donna and Zack know at every dinner. Sami bopped her head to the beats in the background, looking up to see who else needed serving she caught Erika leaning her forearms against the bar, a suggestive smirk resting against her lips. Sami grinned, nodding for her to come behind the bar.

Erika lifted the hatch and closing it behind her she turned to flying dollars and without being asked started taking orders. Sami threw her towel over her shoulder, grabbing Erika's elbow to press her lips lightly against her ear.

"This is your night off from Aunt duties, go and enjoy it."

Erika turned to the whispering lips, pressing her finger against them, insisting Sami keep quiet.

"I will once it slows down, now let me work on getting some tips." She insisted with a sly wink.

Sami laughed, shaking her head. Just as she turned to the bar her eyes fell on a staring Katelyn. She felt her heart skip and smile disappear. She clenched her jaw before approaching.

Spreading her palms against the bar, she kept the steady eye contact with the seductive browns. "What can I get you?"

"G&T, two bloody Mary's, vodka and OJ, and four beers."

Sami nodded, grabbing a tray from under the bar. "I'll bring them over."

Saying nothing, Katelyn nodded and turned to go back to the tables. Sami stopped herself from watching the woman walk away and got right to making up their order. Placing the last bottle of beer on the tray she started making her way through the crowd, finally resting the tray on one of tables next to the cheerful group. Sami looked up to Katelyn and Terri sitting in the corner. She watched their eyes admiring each other. She looked over at a staring Zack and Donna, a sadness behind their blinks. Sami swallowed hard and sent them both a wink with a shrug.

"Here you go, y'all. Erika will be over soon."

Zack stretched his neck out looking for her in the crowd.

"Where is she?"

Sami nodded her head back at the bar. "Insisted on helping."

Zack put his drink down. "All right, count me in too."

Sami laughed, pushing her palm against his chest. At this point Katelyn looked over.

"Slow your roll bud. I told you, enjoy your night, it's nearly closing time. I got this." Sami insisted.

"Are we staying back after doors are locked?" He asked, sitting back down with Donna.

"Yeah, we can. But not too late, I have that client at the parlor in the morning."

Billy turned, pointing. "Oh yeah, Trevor Daniels, he's the dude opening up the nightclub here in East Pines. Club Euphoria, or something like that."

Sami nodded. "All right, y'all enjoy let me get back to Erika."

***

Zack and Jordan began putting the chairs on the tables. While Billy poured their fifth round of shots, since closing the bar. Everyone was certainly feeling themselves. Sami stood behind the bar clearing up the glasses, while Erika wiped down the bar.

Nicole took her shot, firing a dirty look at a snickering Terri as she laughed at yet another pool ball missing the pocket from Nicole.

"Shut it…"

Katelyn giggled as she sat comfortably with her feet up on another chair. They were all well and truly feeling their drinks, enjoying the soft beats in the background. She'd had a good night with everyone, and Terri had kept her entertained for most of the night, certainly helping take her mind off her small confrontation with Sami. She took in a short deep breath remembering Sami saying she felt something for her in the present tense. She didn't buy it, regardless what she or anyone else said. Sami slept with her best friend when she knew Katelyn was hopelessly in love with her, that was a hurdle she'd probably never get over, not to mention she wasn't there anymore… Right… The side effects were normal, they'd sizzle out.

Suddenly her daydream was interrupted by Erika grabbing a tired Sami's hand as soon as an upbeat but sultry song came on. She watched Sami smirk as their bodies slowly danced against each other. Unable to ignore Sami's hands slowly spreading over Erika's slow grinding hips while her back arched against her. Katelyn suddenly choked back an uncomfortable jealousy. Her eyes widening to the out of nowhere inferno building inside of her. What the…

"Get it girl!" Laughed Nicole, before grabbing Billy by the collar, pulling him to her and grinding suggestively against him.

Everyone else laughed, unbothered by the two women behind the bar. Katelyn closed her eyes, swallowing a bitterness as she witnessed Sami's lips gently caress the side of Erika's neck, her opened lips letting her gentle breaths stroke her skin. Katelyn knew exactly how that felt. Pressing her fingers against the side of her neck, she cleared her throat, unable to shake the thoughts of Sami's touch once being on her. Abruptly Erika pushed the bar latch open, pulling Sami behind her and shoving her down on one of the chairs. Katelyn couldn't take her eyes off Sami's smirk as Erika's hips moved effortlessly to the suggestively seductive bass. Her hips grinding slow, her bottom lip staying latched between her teeth, her fingers running through her long hair, their eyes remaining locked during the entirety of the impromptu lap dance.

She slowly shut her eyes, realizing she was going to have to endure watching Sami, being Sami…And it still affecting her exactly how it did two years ago.

A relieved Katelyn opened her eyes as the song ended, but her desperate browns rested on Erika straddling Sami's lap, her arms locked around Sami's neck and their gaze not faltering to the upbeat song change. She watched their suggestive smirks match one another, their now seductive gaze locked in. Her heart jumped into her throat as a sudden nausea hit her stomach. She rushed her hand to her stomach, desperately she wanted to not witness what she knew was coming but somehow couldn't keep her eyes off them.

She jumped to a hand resting on her back, before turning to a tipsy Donna.

"Are you okay, honey?"

Katelyn swallowed hard, trying to keep herself in check. "Yes, I just think the drinks aren't agreeing with me any longer." She pushed a small giggle.

"Want me to call you a cab?" Offered Terri, before taking a seat next to her.

Katelyn shifted her eyes back to Sami and Erika who still sat playing on the tension between them, then eventually back to a waiting Terri.

"Yes, please. And thank you for a great night Terri." She swallowed hard before leaving a gentle kiss on the soft freckled cheek.

Moving her sights back to Sami, she watched Erika whisper something in Sami's ear, causing Sami's eyes to clamp shut immediately. Katelyn swallowed her nausea, and watched Erika slowly raise herself from a pinned Sami. Witnessing Erika's sly wink and grin, she watched her approach with a proud of herself smile firmly locked against her cheeks. She grabbed Zack and started dancing with him playfully. Katelyn looked at Billy handing Sami a glass of whiskey and clanking them together.

Sami started approaching them, Katelyn wanted to do nothing more than to let Sami feel the wrath of her jealousy, but she knew she had no right, none at all. It wasn't Sami's fault she was feeling it this time. How was she ever going to get Sami out of her system and let this friendship work? Everything was going so well she had been dealing with the side effects just fine so far… Why did she have to be awakened to the unsteady of Sami Wilson? Maybe it was just the alcohol?

She tucked a hair behind her ear as Sami grabbed a chair and sat it down next to Katelyn before nodding Terri's way.

"What's up Ter?" She asked, taking a sip of whiskey.

Terri leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees to look past Katelyn. Katelyn arched her brow, making sure to stay looking forward and say nothing.

"What's going on, Sami? You looked like you got one hell of a show." Stated Terri through her laughter.

Sami smirked with a subtle nod, and a throat clear. She didn't want to talk about it in front of Katelyn.

"The bar had you rushed off your feet tonight."

Sami nodded. "Yeah, it did…did y'all have a good time though?"

Terri nodded, nudging toward Katelyn. "Sure did, thanks to this one."

Katelyn sent a small smile, before sipping at the water Donna brought her.

Sami nodded. "Good, I'm glad. All right I'll leave y'all to it."

And just like that Sami got up, leaving Katelyn and Terri.

"Your cab should be here soon."

Katelyn turned to Terri, studying her. "Thank you, Terri…you're one of the good ones. You know that right?"

Terri smiled, dropping her eyes to the floor. "Not good enough for some…" She looked up at Katelyn, her soft stare suddenly turning to a daring one.

Katelyn pulled her bottom lip in between her teeth. "No, you are…it's just sometimes people become blinded by assholes…"

Terri's stare shifted to Sami, then back to Katelyn. "Just know…I'm going nowhere. You can come and fuck my life up at any time."

Katelyn laughed resting her palm against the soft cheek, her eyes admiring the kindness behind Terri's. "Tempting…but I think I need to start dealing with my issues before bringing someone else in." She rested a gentle kiss on the other cheek of Terri. She wasn't intending on leading Terri on a wild goose chase. She'd always liked her, just like Sami and Erika, the timing was never right but while she was still having side effects from Sami… It just wouldn't be the right time to bring someone else into her chaos.

Chapter 29

Sami pushed another solid line down the forearm of her first client of the morning, Trevor Daniels. Erika walked over with a coffee for the two of them. Sami looked up through the top of her glasses and smiled.

"Thank you, darlin'" Said Trevor, before taking a small sip.

"You're welcome, that piece is really coming along nicely."

Trevor nodded. "I can't tell you how excited I was to hear Sami Wilson was tattooing in the town I'm opening my club. I saw a few of your pieces at the convention back in Arizona…fucking beautiful to say the least."

Sami smiled, shaking her head. "Everyone here is insanely talented…I'm lucky to have them on my team."

Erika squeezed her shoulder lightly before going back to her station to finish drawing up a piece for a client she had booked in later that morning.

Sami tilted her head. "Okay, I think we're done." Gently she wiped away the excess ink, her eyes admiring the black and grey portrait of Trevor's daughter.

"Jesus Christ, Sam…it looks just fucking like her!"

Sami smiled, rolling her chair back while flicking off her gloves and throwing them in the trash next to her.

"I'm glad you love it." She stood up, stretching before grabbing her much needed coffee and taking a sip. Recently she hadn't been at the parlor as much as she'd wanted to with trying to juggle most of the responsibilities of the bar, so to finally ink some skin made her feel all the better.

Trevor stood up, admiring his tattoo in the mirror one more time. Pulling out his wallet, he grabbed a wad of cash, and without counting it he walked toward Erika, placing the large sum of money in her hand. "Listen I know she won't accept this that's why I'm giving it to you." He winked before turning back to Sami and pulling his card from his wallet.

"Listen…this Friday is the grand opening for the club. I want you to be there, you'll get V.I.P treatment, the works. Bring your friends."

Sami looked at the black card, admiring the glossy purple font, her eyebrow cocked. "You don't have to Trevor…we'll be there regardless."

Running his fingers through his slick black hair, he placed his hand on her shoulder, squeezing it. Forcing her eyes to focus on the intense blues. "No, I do need to do this. This piece is fucking beautiful."

Sami scratched the back of her neck, not knowing what to say. He was certainly being more than generous. "We'll see you Friday…"

His smile now big. "Okay good." He turned back looking toward Erika. "I hope to be seeing you on Friday."

Erika gave a suggestive smirk with a wink. "Maybe you will, maybe you won't."

Sami watched him leave and shut the door behind him. She turned back stretching out again. Every bone cracking profusely.

"Jesus Sam, he gave you fifteen hundred dollars." Explained Erika, her eyes wide.

Sami pinched the bridge of her nose as a headache lingered. "He's a nice dude but hell he's crazy as fuck."

Sami started cleaning up her booth as Erika approached, laying back into the tattoo chair for the clients. "Can I ask you something?"

Sami nodded. "Of course."

"Did you notice a subtle jealousy from Katelyn last night at the bar, after that little dance I gave you?"

Sami shook her head. "I really didn't pay much attention, but I highly doubt it, she's over all of that."

Erika shrugged. "Yeah…I'm not too sure about all of that."

Sami stopped what she was doing and looked at her friend. "I promise you…she doesn't feel a thing. I fucked up it's done."

Erika sighed. "Then that's her loss. I just don't believe it I know I caught a look from her and to say she looked completely punctured at one point…understatement. That's why I pulled away. I love playing on our sexual tension, but I started feeling bad."

Sami clenched her jaw. "Her and I literally had that conversation earlier in the evening, she's no longer in that place."

"Are you?"

Sami shook her head. "You know better than to ask me that."

Erika flung her legs over the edge of the tattoo chair grasping the edges. "You do…"

Sami sighed heavily, once again pinching the bridge of her nose.

"Fuck it, so what if I do? It'll never be returned can we drop it please?"

Erika bit her bottom lip, and jumping off the tattoo chair she approached Sami, wrapping her arms around her neck, forcing Sami's darks to meet hers.

"Your secrets safe with me…I'm still going to fuck with you though, it's too much fun not to."

"You're just torturing yourself…"

Erika laughed, pressing her finger against Sami's lips, still biting on her own. Her eyes suddenly narrowing with seduction.

"Behave yourself…I only have so much control." Insisted Sami, with a smirk.

Erika scrunched her nose, and lightly she pressed her lips against Sami's cheek, purposely holding them there for a short time. Taking in a deep breath she finally pulled away, with a proud of herself smirk.

"Lose control on me anytime…" The whisper trailed.

Sami swallowed hard, with a smirk. "Get back to work…"

Erika giggled flicking her long silver hair back and doing exactly as she was told.

***

Katelyn fell back on her cream sectional, alongside Donna. All her furniture had finally been delivered and put in their desired places of her two-bedroom apartment. The desk for her second bedroom she had yet to be delivered, but once it was then she'd know how she wanted to set up her home office. She took in a relieved breath, releasing it slowly before rolling her head to the side to look at an equally exhausted Donna.

She reached her hand out, placing it on top of Donna's with an appreciative smile.

"I couldn't have done this without you. Thank you so much Don."

Donna smiled, scrunching her nose. "You know I'm always here for you honey."

Katelyn slapped her thighs before forcing herself up and moving to the open planned kitchen.

"Do you want some more coffee?" She offered, prepping the coffee pot.

Donna sat forward, fixing her jeans. "Please honey…I still have to work the bar tonight."

Eventually Katelyn approached with freshly brewed coffees in each hand. Handing Donna hers she placed her cup on the coaster resting on the glass coffee table before sitting back down. Admiring the view of the opened French doors facing her, the light cool breeze flowing effortlessly into her apartment.

"So, the other day at Sami's…what had you almost spooked?" Asked Donna, keeping her eyes on the lightly waving spruce treetops peeking through the opened French doors.

Katelyn choked down her sip of coffee as the memory of catching Sami and Erika in a questionable embrace hit her.

She sighed. "Forget it Don. It really doesn't matter."

Donna gave her a doubtful brow arch. "Honey…spit it out. It's not often we get time alone like this, and with Micks surgery coming up…then the wedding plans I doubt we'll have time alone until after the damn wedding."

Katelyn smiled, then shoved her cheek between her teeth. She wasn't sure she should bring up how she'd been feeling… A part of her terrified that if she said it out loud it would make her sudden returning feelings for Sami all the more real and not just a battle in her head. Donna's small squeeze against her knee pulled Katelyn out of her daze.

"What is it, Katie?" Asked Donna, her sympathetic gaze pushing an eyeroll from Katelyn.

"God, Don…I don't even know if it's really worth bringing up…I mean—"

"Try me." Interrupted Donna.

Katelyn took in a deep breath, stretching her palms over her thighs. She swallowed hard, closing her eyes.

"When we walked in and I saw Sami…with Erika…" She groaned. "I felt physically sick, Don."

Donna nodded for her to keep going.

She took in another deep breath. "I've been feeling…things, I guess. I've been putting it down to just side effects but…last night at the bar when I watched Erika giving her that lap dance…good Lord, I wanted to just…I'm too old to be feeling a jealousy like this and Sami is the only person to make me get this way, ever. I've always been cool, calm and collected but when it comes to your damn sister, I get this insane anger and jealousy that just ripples through to my very core."

"Oh, honey." Said Donna, pulling Katelyn into her, their heads resting against one another.

"Then last night we talked briefly…she told me I still haunt her. I completely shut down her attempts to tell me anything about her feelings. I just can't get over her sleeping with Tara, Don…I had Jordan offer it up, right on a plate but I couldn't stomach it not being Sami. Whereas Sami…well we all know what happened there."

"Katie, Sami is dumb when it comes to her feelings, and love for that matter. She just knows how to try and numb her pain temporarily. We're all veterans at this love game, her not so much you gotta cut her some slack." Explained Donna.

"Donna, please tell me this is just… side effects for the love of God please tell me my feelings aren't coming back with a vengeance. I can't go through all of that again, I don't want to…" Pleaded Katelyn.

"Katie, I wish I could…but I honestly have no idea." Donna whispered, holding her friend tighter. "If it turns out, your feelings have returned…" She pulled away, forcing Katelyn to meet her stare. "You have to tell her. Katelyn, I know my sister and I know she still loves you, I know you don't believe she ever did, but like I've said repeatedly, I know my sister and I know you had her wholeheartedly. She just fucked up royally."

Katelyn groaned, pulling her fingers through her loose hair. "Donna, everything was going fucking fine…then I had to witness an ever more changing Sami…even more thoughtful and caring…a Sami I'd longed to see, a softer Sami...Christ Donna." Groaned Katelyn once more.

"Katie please tell her…before she ends up sleeping with Erika and God knows who else, let's be honest." Pleaded Donna.

Katelyn shook her head. A sudden jolted knot hitting her stomach at the mere thought of Sami and Erika.

"No…just let me try and work through some things…I wouldn't hold it against either of them if they slept together. They have every right. I just broke up with Quinn. I just fucking got here, I have my first day at the firm tomorrow, Micks surgery next week…" She paused, grabbing her coffee. "I'm just going to ride it out a little more and see if these…feelings subside."

Donna shook her head. "They haven't after two years, for either of you. What makes you think they will now?"

"Wishful fucking thinking?" She replied, pushing a laughter from Donna.

"Well…this will be fun to watch…round two of Katelyn and Sami completely denying their love for one another, while torturing each other to the very core."

"It's not like that at all…just Sami and Katie trying to not return to the turmoil they had once put each other through." Replied Katelyn, rolling her eyes.

"Why though? Zack is no longer an issue. Neither one of you are in a relationship…both clearly still feeling the exact same way."

"She still scares me, Don. She still makes me unsteady, powerless, vulnerable…and if I'm honest with myself she still has the ability to rip my heart out of my chest, and I don't think I can ever give her that opportunity again. Her having my heart completely, isn't comfortable for me, and it should be. You should be able to be perfectly comfortable letting your heart rest in someone else's hands. When it comes to her." She sighed shaking her head.

Donna chewed the inside of her cheek. "I don't think she'd fuck up a second time round, if you gave her that chance Katie."

Chapter 30

Katelyn placed her briefcase on her sleek black glass executive desk. Shimmying her white peacoat off her shoulders she hung it on the black coat hanger. Clearing her throat, she turned to the large floor to ceiling windows behind her desk and took in the beauty of Pines snow covered mountains off in the distance. The sky was a beautiful baby blue, the clouds a pleasantly intoxicating vagrant white. She smiled into herself. It felt so good to be back at her father's firm. A gentle knock interrupting her blissful daydream.

"Come in." She insisted, turning from the serenity to face the door.

"Hey you, your father wants you in the conference room." Announced Richard, with a fresh coffee for her.

Katelyn smiled, nodding and walking toward him before taking the coffee and following him down the hall. Her eyes scanning the numerous booths or paralegals surrounded by attorney offices. The doors each displaying flawlessly golden plaques with each associates name. Finally, she paused behind Richard as he knocked gently and proceeded to escort her into the large conference room. The giant red cherry oval conference desk taking center stage. She smiled at her father sitting at the head of the table, files fileted across it. She noticed her and Richard's paralegals Gavin Lavery and Melissa Tundler. Her brow arching to Zack and her Uncle Mick also sitting at the table.

"Hey, you guys." She said with slight suspicion before placing a kiss on her brother's cheek and then her Uncles. "What's going on?"

Arthur removed his glasses from the tip of his nose, gently placing them on the paperwork in front of him. Resting his elbow's in front of him he gestured for her to take a seat, and straightening her solid black fitted dress, she did so.

"Okay, well as we know, your uncle's surgery is next Monday. And we have no doubt that everything will be fine…but he wanted to cross off some T's and dot some I's, regarding his assets and estates." Informed Arthur.

Katelyn nodded slowly. "Okay, sounds good. So, what am I doing here?"

Arthur cleared his throat. "Well…Mick has decided and I think I have to agree that if at some point something goes wrong and he needs someone to make the call, he…we, your mother also feel like you would be the best one to make the call, therefore becoming his power of attorney." He took an apprehensive deep breath. "If you feel it's something you can do, we just need you to sign a few papers."

Her heart sank into the pit of her stomach, instant tears balanced against her lashes. She looked over at her uncle's pleading stare, then shoved her cheek in between her teeth.

"Am I really the only one?" She asked, clearing the lump from her throat.

Mick nodded slowly. "I'm sorry Teddy, but your mother nor Sophie would make the call. Nicole and Zack…nope. As for Sami, absolutely not and we know she'll hold survivor's guilt until the damn end of time. I have no doubt in my mind that you would make the call to end my suffering."

Katelyn cleared her throat once more. Hating that she fully understood his predicament. "Okay, fine. Where do I sign?"

She sat forward as Richard placed the manilla file in front of her, before giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. She swallowed hard while flicking through each page, signing the bottom. Eventually she shut the file and slid it back to her father and passed Richards pen back to him.

"Who is going to take over your estate and assets?" She asked, raising her coffee and taking a small sip.

Arthur began flicking through some paperwork. "Well…"

Mick tapped his fingers against the desk. "Don't worry Michael isn't getting his hands on anything."

Katelyn took a sigh of relief. "Thank God…he doesn't deserve a single dime."

Placing his glasses back on the tip of his nose, Arthur scanned the will and testament of his brother in law.

"Sophie is getting half of his life savings in the grand total of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. She's also getting his coin collection, we had it appraised at a total of three hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars. Finally, she's getting the loft apartment above the bar."

Katelyn choked her coffee back. "Way to go Uncle Mick."

He smirked, giving a pleased of himself shrug.

Arthur continued. "Sami is getting the other half of his life savings, at a total of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. She's also getting fifty percent ownership of the Blackbeard, and his cabin by the lake estate."

Katelyn arched her brow. "Is Sami aware of any of this?"

Mick shook his head.

"You realize she's going to fight tooth and nail, probably end up giving it all to Sophie." Insisted Katelyn, forcing a laughter from Zack.

"That's what I told them." Said Zack, leaning back and crossing his arms.

"Sophie and I have already discussed that…trust I know Sami like the back of my hand. Sophie will refuse until she's blue in the face, Sami will have no choice in the matter. I know she won't let the bar drown and she knows that cabin is my pride and joy, she wouldn't dare let it run into the ground." He replied.

Katelyn smirked, then gave a subtle head shake. "Well…let's just hope it doesn't come to any of this."

"I couldn't agree more. Okay your brother and I are going out for some lunch. I'll leave you four to go over the Mrs. Robinson murder case. They've put a portfolio together for you to give you the run down so far. I'll call you at some point tonight to discuss more on the case." Informed Arthur as he stood, tidying the paperwork in front of him and placing them into a folder before tucking it under his arm.

Katelyn nodded taking in a content breath. "Sounds good."

Arthur approached her to place a kiss on the top of her head, before Zack gave her a hug and let Mick lead them out of the conference room. She couldn't have been happier watching her father put his arm around her brother as they exited the conference room. All Zack ever wanted was their father's approval, acceptance and love and after all these years he finally got it. The thought pushing a smile against her cheek.

"Okay, so what have we got so far?" Asked Katelyn, watching as Melissa lifted a box and placed it on the table.

"Well, so far…we have police reports from the last six months of Mrs. Robinson calling about domestic disturbance's involving her husband."

"What came of those reports? Any charges?" Katelyn asked.

Melissa shook her head. "No, she dropped them every time. We do have photographs of her injuries all ranging from the past six months also."

Katelyn nodded to see them. She slowly flicked through each image, swallowing hard at the extent of the brutality she was seeing.

"We also have proof that she went to see a divorce lawyer to look into divorce proceedings, last month." Stated Gavin, pulling the paperwork.

Katelyn looked over at him through lashes. "Did they file?"

He shook his head. "No, she was trying to get money together first."

"Tell me she didn't have life insurance out on him…"

Richard shook his head. "Nope, they only had it out on her."

"Okay, so the DA can't try that route."

"We do have one slight hiccup…" Stated Melissa, sliding a folder toward Katelyn and Richard.

Katelyn arched a brow and sifted through the paperwork. "Well, there's the motive."

"Why didn't you guys bring this to me?" Questioned Richard, his hands firmly gripped to his hips.

"We just got this, this morning…" Replied Gavin.

Katelyn bit the inside of her cheek, narrowing her eyes to the emails and photographs of her client being intimate with another man.

"Okay, well…seeing as we know they have a solid motive, have we got photos of the crime scene, evidence? Have they determined if the trajectory of the bullets match her account of what happened? And the distance between Mrs. Robinson and her husband when she shot? How many gunshot wounds were there?" Inquired Katelyn, her mind racing with possibilities. This was her first case back at the Pines, a pretty huge case that her father specifically gave to her and Richard, she certainly didn't want to let him down. Not to mention the dream team that her and Richard were… They had two paralegals looking up to them and analyzing their every thought and movement she knew. She was molding another great attorney, she'd hoped.

"The coroner is still working on trajectory and how much gun powder was on his clothing. We should get results within the next couple of days. There were two shots fired, one hit him." Explained Gavin.

"Her accounts of that night are that she'd just made his dinner, and when she brought him a beer, he complained it wasn't cold enough and threw the beer bottle at her." Melissa grabbed some papers and handed them to both Richard and Katelyn. "We do have evidence of beer all over the wall behind the television and glass everywhere. He began calling her names, the son was home at the time, the daughter was not. In his interview he said he was in his room but heard no altercation between his parents." She finished.

"Did he try to explain to the detective why there was beer all over the wall at least?" Asked Katelyn.

"Actually yes…he said it was probably his mother. He claims she was always on his father's case, always complaining about him not working and spending their money at the casino…"

"Okay, what happened after he threw the beer at her?" Inquired Katelyn, looking at the crime scene photos.

"After that, she says she went into the kitchen to get him another beer and poured it into a glass with ice. Brought it to him, she then claims he spat in her face because the glass had smudges." She passed a photo to Katelyn. "As you can see there is a glass of beer there next to his recliner. He then went on to tell her when he got done eating, she'd better be ready for another ass whooping."

"Okay so how did his body end up upstairs in their bedroom?"

"Mrs. Robinson says that's usually were the beatings would take place because their kids' rooms are downstairs. The daughter's room is on the first floor and the son is down in the basement. They have the attic room."

Katelyn nodded. "That could be a direction for us to use as to why he possibly didn't hear an altercation between the two of them. Okay keep going."

"She says he threw her on the bed, persisted to punch her a few times before hitting her with his bat. We do have Xray results confirming two broken ribs and a cheek bone fract—"

Katelyn raised her palm, closing her eyes for a moment. She swallowed her sudden sorrow. Clearing her throat, she opened her eyes to another gentle squeeze from Richard.

"Okay, do we have any of her DNA on that bat? Preferably blood?"

"We're still waiting for the lab on that one." Stated Gavin.

"Okay…carry on."

Melissa swallowed hard. "She claims her husband always left his gun under his pillow and after the last blow with the bat, she watched him sliding his belt from his jeans knowing only too well that he was going to swat her with the belt and buckle, she couldn't take anymore, she saw a hatred in his eyes, having no doubt if she didn't do anything to stop him, he may have very well killed her this time. So, she made the decision to quickly grab his gun, and she took two shots. One shot hit him in the chest, right through the heart, the other shot missed and hit the television which was directly behind where she claimed her husband was standing."

Katelyn took in a deep breath and nodded, examining the photograph of the victim's lifeless body laid out on the floor at the foot of the bed. She looked toward Richard.

"Until we get the trajectory reports, it's still in the air but by the sounds of it, I can see it playing out like that…we just have to prove it." She stated, putting the photograph with the others.

Richard nodded. "We will…" 

Part 4

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