Disclaimer:   See Part One

Chapter Twenty-seven

"Would it be worth it darling?" the woman asked the man softly she was disturbed at his recent pre-occupation over this child.

The man looked up with a shocked expression; "of course it would be worth it, how can you say that!"

"I just thought perhaps you might put it all behind you, it's been eating away at you long enough." The woman responded gently.

Walking over to the window of the villa they rented, the man looked at the beauty that the Austrian Alps afforded them. It calmed him momentarily as he considered the words spoken.

"I don't think I'll ever forget her or her mother." The man sighed heavily, continuing to stare at the quiet beauty that he saw before him, his hand clutching a sheaf of papers.

The woman sucked in a sharp breath at his admission, was this how it was always going to be? Was she going to be second to the woman he had married, who had subsequently divorced him, and was now living with another woman? Hadn't he been humiliated enough?

"I never asked you to forget them darling, merely to move forward with your life. But if that is not your wish I suggest you go ahead, continue to pursue custody of the child!"

Peter Adamson turned at the obvious pain in the words that the woman in the room voiced.

He looked over at her bent dark head, his heart tugged at the stupidity of the situation he found himself. Here was a woman who did love him. Who had over the last year made him feel as if he was the only man in the world. Her love had salvaged him from his bitterness of Jace and her refusal to allow him access to their daughter. Now he wanted to jeopardise his future with this woman, and for what? A child who in all probability would not be happy with his wandering life, who would miss her mother terribly if they were parted, not to mention a long and painful legal battle. Because he knew deep down that Jace wasn't going to forfeit her daughter, she certainly had the financial backing to keep it in the courts for years.

"I'm sorry Veronique, I'm so sorry." He brokenly uttered as he knelt down at her side by the chair she was seated in. She looked up he saw the tears that glistening in the warm brown eyes that always welcomed him home, happy to see him.

Veronique heard the sincere apology, lifting a hand stroking the sandy hair of the man she had lost her heart to, feeling such profound sadness for his predicament. She had difficulty forgiving his ex-wife for the pain she caused him; conversely grateful in a strange way, for had she not left him how could they have ever met to share so much joy together.

"Perhaps my love if you talked with your ex-wife and her friend, they might allow you to see your daughter from time to time. Wouldn't that be better than a fight that would not be beneficial for any of you, least of all your child?"

Peter Adamson starred directly into the compassionate eyes, felt his heart rate increase, and she was so loving, forgiving and special. He was a very lucky man he did not ever want her to leave him!

"Would you come with me to talk to Jace, if she allows it?" he asked with a look on his face that reminded Veronique of a little boy lost, and he was certainly lost at times. She was quite capable of being his safe harbour in this world if he let her, and could think of nothing more wonderful than that thought.

"That's the first time you haven't called her your wife." The woman was surprised, it showed in her tone.

"I never realised that, but she no longer has that title for me I'm keeping that for someone very special." Peter spoke gently never letting her eyes stray from his, although he saw the sharp glance he given at the comment.

"I hope she is special darling I really do, when you meet her." Veronique felt desolate at his words, far more than she had at his previous sensitive subject.

Peter heard her withdrawal, realised he had made an ass of himself again, one day he'd learn.

Placing tender hands around the plain face of this woman who had captured his heart, she wasn't a beauty physically. However, her inner essence outshone even the most stunning person he'd ever come across in his profession, and he had met many people.

"I've already met her she's here beside me, the woman who saved me, who brought alive a broken heart.  Who loves me regardless of my faults, which brings me happiness within that is hard to explain. Who picks me up when I fall, who is my friend when all around are strangers. Who if she would accept my humble proposal I would dearly love to call my wife?" Peter spoke in a quiet warm loving tone that came from the heart.

Tears streamed down the face of the woman, as he pulled her gently into his arms, stroking her hair whispering again how much he loved her.

"You know I only need one word?" he asked patiently.

"Yes." Veronique managed to reply through her tears of happiness. If she was ever asked to name a moment when she had felt so much emotion, it must be this one. At thirty-eight she'd been through a few emotional moments but this was her finest she thought.

Peter chuckled as he kissed the dark head of hair breathing in the delicate scent that always told him she was in the room. "Then I'll take it as a yes to being my wife."

Veronique jumped up, smothering him with kisses as he responded with a passion that he had to admit he had only ever felt with her never with Jace. "Yes, yes, yes!"

Several minutes later Peter held his new fiancée in his arms as he glanced down at the papers he'd previously had in his hands. Settling Veronique in the crook of his arm he bent down to pick up a pen signing the papers in the allocated space.

"I think that's the end of that episode in my life Veronique. It's time to make my own family a reality not fiction, what do you say?" He turned back to the woman; saw the love and passion starring at him. As he gently pulled her up out of the sitting position, they went towards the bedroom, to celebrate a new life together.

The official adoption papers to allow Catherine Warriorson to adopt his child now signed, ready for returning to the lawyers for final confirmation.

~ ~ ~

The flight had been airborne for three hours Lisa was chatting amiably with Dave the steward, as Catherine had taken a call from Dusterly to say she had eased the situation with the police for the time being.

Dusterly had informed her that the drug test taken on Jace on the day of the abduction would have no lasting effects. That it was a drug that they hoped to trace and this would further help their case on Rosnova's conviction. She had also mentioned that Delaney the police officer who had been part of the team from day one of the kidnappings had tendered his resignation. All in all things were moving along well, if Rosnova co-operated they might even trace some of the kids previously kidnapped. It was something that gave back hope to the parents of the other kids, however slim that hope might be.

They had discussed Dusterly's future. Wanting to see if she could help the parents of the kids still abducted. Maybe the miracle that brought Lisa home might extend to some of those too.

Dusterly had agreed to meet up with her again on the next trip to New York, no date had been concluded, and it had suited both women.

Catherine had silently applauded the decision by the ex-profiler. Smiling as she looked across at Lisa laughing at something Dave was saying. That made her a little easier as the trip to the airport had been fraught and uncomfortable for them both.

Catherine held Lisa's hand as they headed for the elevator and the start of the journey home. As she pressed the button for the elevator to take them down the twenty levels she became pre-occupied with numerous plans racing around in her mind.

A slight pain in her hand brought her out of her jumbled thoughts, as she looked down to see Lisa gripping her hand, as if it was about to take flight, the child's knuckles white as the grip intensified.

"Lisa are you okay?" Catherine bent closer to the child, so she could take in the emotions that the girl was emitting. Her ice blue eyes captured the small girl's sky blue ones. What she saw there shook her in every fibre of her being. The uncontrollable fear in the depths that depicted a terror Catherine didn't understand.

"I can't!" the small voice whispered looking with beseeching eyes to Catherine.

Catherine was at a loss what could she do? "What can't you do Lisa?"

Lisa suddenly flung her thin arms around the tall woman, sobbing into her shoulder. Catherine held her tightly then swung her up in her arms pulling her as close as possible, needing to protect the child from whatever terrified her.

The elevator doors opened, a brash looking young man was leaning against the wall close to the buttons, a bored expression on his face.

"I can't!" Lisa shrieked into Catherine's ear the woman winced at the noise level.

It then dawned on Catherine what the problem was, as she looked at the elevator then her child hugging her tighter into her shoulder. "Okay Lisa, it's okay we won't how about we walk?"

"You want this ride or not?" the young man asked irritated at the wait, especially if the kid was going to cry all the way down.

"No!" Catherine shouted at the man, who threw her a vicious glance closing the doors on her and Lisa.

"It's a long way down Catherine will you be okay?" Lisa asked solemnly as she gulped back her tears.

Catherine smiled at the comment; her Lisa was still in there that was for sure. "Tell you what, if I make it. You buy the first milkshake, what do you say?"

Lisa turned watery eyes to Catherine smiling weakly as she kissed the woman's cheek, she was slowly let down to the ground.

"I say that's a deal." The girl chuckled, holding out her hand for Catherine to take.

"A deal it is." Catherine replied, wondering what state she would be in when she did finally arrive at the ground floor.

She had made it, although she was glad that the car was waiting for them, as the reporters were milling around the lobby and entrance. Fortunately the concierge had smuggled them out but still the odd one or two had hammered on the car, frightening Lisa a little more. Catherine had managed to maintain her temper but only just, and by the time they had settled on the private flight they had both welcomed the security it offered within the familiar peaceful surroundings.

"Hey princess what about my milkshake we had a deal if I remember?" Catherine called across to the child.

Lisa wasn't sure what to say she didn't have any money to buy a milkshake. "IÖI Catherine IÖ" She was stopped from answering as Dave intervened.

"Miss, I have the beverages all ready for you, if you would like to take a seat?" the steward said formally pointing to the seat next to Catherine.

Lisa looked at him with eyes as wide as saucers, blinking several times before she did as he requested. Settling down into the seat next to Catherine, she glanced her way. Dave quickly deposited the two milkshakes on the table in front of them.

"I didn't have to pay Catherine, so it's not proper." Lisa reluctantly admitted, as she drank some of the strawberry milkshake, watching Catherine sip from her lime drink.

Smiling, Catherine turned serious eyes to the child speaking softly.

"Well, it's like this Lisa as payment you have to sit and listen to a story. If you don't, of course I will still expect you to buy me a milkshake, is that a fair trade?"

Lisa considered the offer grinning, causing a reciprocal one on the woman's face at her side. ëCatherine wasn't very clever, for that wasn't a very good deal we all love Catherine's stories.'

"Yes it's a fair trade." Lisa announced with an air of importance as she snuggled down into the large comfortable seat.

"Pleased to hear it." Catherine quickly wiped the self-satisfied smug look from her face as Lisa looked in her direction.

"Guess I'd better start then." Catherine briefly closed her eyes as she pondered what story to tell from her memory.

"Once upon a time there lived a happy, contented girl about your age Lisa. She loved life with such enthusiasm that everyone who knew her loved her.

They loved her so much always referring to her as their little princess. Not that she was of royal blood you see, but they thought she deserved to be.

One day a small monster came into her happy life, this was a dark, unhappy monster, who didn't want to see anyone laugh or smile again. The small monster would take away children locking them up so that they were unhappy and their families were unhappy too.

Catherine looked at the child not wanting to scare her, relieved when she saw Lisa listening to her every word raptly.

"Come on Catherine what happened next? This is like my story." Lisa exclaimed engrossed in the story.

Well, of course the little princess couldn't let that happen could she. So she decided that the next time the monster came to take away a child, she would be the one to go. Well everyone was unhappy about that, no matter how her family tried to warn her she still insisted.

The small monster came to take away the little princess just as she had planned, when he was about to lock her away in the dark, she spoke to him.

"Why do you make everyone unhappy Mr. Small Monster?" the little princess asked earnestly, she felt sorry for the small monster he looked so sad and lonely.

The small monster could not believe it! Why wasn't this child scared of him everyone else was, why wasn't she? "Because I'm a bad monster I like to make every one unhappy, now be quiet."

The little princess smiled at the small monster, replying,"ëbut that isn't an answer is it?"

The small monster was once more surprised, looked at the small girl, wondering why she still smiled. All the other children had cried and cried. "I don't need to answer it little girl, so please keep quiet."

The little princess was happy that the monster had said please, perhaps there was hope for him yet. But the small monster shut the door walking away grumbling to himself as he did so.

This ritual went on for several days. Every time the small monster would bring another boy or girl to the dark room, she would ask him simple questions. The small monster would always linger a little longer each time. Then one night the monster came but didn't bring another child, opening the door wider he pulled the little princess out of the room altogether.

This of course stunned the little princess. She smiled regally at the grumpy small monster, which wasn't really that bad to look at if you forgot the wart on his nose. He was dark that was true, he had a tuft of bright green hair that looked very silly but the little princess dare not laugh at the small monster. He was also quite round and he walked liked a Pillsbury doughboy, which brought another smile to the little princess's face.

"Where are you taking me?" asked the little princess she was not afraid of the small monster, merely intrigued at his actions.

"You always ask too many questions," the small monster grumbled as he led her to another room. This room wasn't dark like all the others; this one was filled with light from the sunshine that streamed in from the large window.

"I was being polite." The little princess replied. Pleased at seeing the daylight after so many days of being without it.

"Why do you want to speak with me I have made you unhappy, also lots of others unhappy?" The small monster reluctantly asked, as he paced up and down in a very comical fashion near the window.

"Yes you have, I want to know why you are so unhappy?" the little princess asked, her voice filled with a warmth that even the grumbling small monster could not resist.

Catherine tugged Lisa close to her as she continued the story. The milkshake now forgotten as the child became enthralled by the story, although tired too.

"A wicked person cast a spell on me and left me like this because I was nasty to them. They said that if I made others unhappy for the next fifty years they would set me free." the monster stated as he pointed to a picture of a young boy scowling at something unknown in a picture.

"Oh that's really, really wicked. How could someone do such a thing?" The little princess was now very sorry for the small monster, for he was really an unfortunate boy who had made a small mistake one day as children do.

"It was a very wicked person, I have not seen them from that day. I must do as they say or they will keep me like this for the rest of my life." the small monster spoke in a very subdued voice.

"I see, were you always so unhappy as a boy? What about your family?" the little princess asked quietly, standing next to the small monster, her pity for him reaching out.

"Why do you care?" the small monster asked, surprised that the girl wasn't frightened of him, she should be he was a very nasty small monster.

"Because it isn't right that you should make so many people unhappy. It was after all your own fault that you are like you are, if you were nasty in the first place." The little princess pointed out to the small monster jabbing him in his soft fleshy chest, to accentuate her point.

The small monster was astounded that this girl should challenge him in this way. He had never been happy making so many people unhappy. However, what else was he to do? "What would you have me do?"

The little princess considered the question carefully before she answered. For although it was easy to say let all the children go home, what would happen to the small monster.

"You could let all the children go home then you would make everyone happy and perhaps that would make you happy too."

The small monster snorted at the comment, laughing at the sentiment. "I would always remain like this, that isn't a very good trade for me is it?"

The little princess smiled slowly at the monster, as she held out her hand, replying. "No it isn't, but you could come home with me and stay with my family. Perhaps one day we might find a cure for you other than being wicked."

"Your family would not want me! A small monster in their home." The small monster replied, taking up his pacing of the room again.

"You are wrong my family would be happy to have you in their home, if you were happy too. Perhaps we can find your family, you might want to go back home to them." The girl slowly explained, watching as the pacing continued. She thought that the small monster was no longer listening.

"I will think about it. Come I need to take you back to the dark room." The small monster led her back to the room.

Early the next day the doors to the dark room opened and in rushed members of the families of the children including her own family.

The little princess did not know what to think. Had the small monster decided to let them go or had the families planned a rescue mission and succeeded. If so, what happened to the monster?

"What happened to the small monster?" the little princess asked anxiously.

"Oh don't worry about the small monster, he can't hurt you now little princess," her family announced proudly.

"What do you mean?" The little princess was now very worried about the small monster.

"Oh we've locked him away in a room on his own, we will keep him there forever." Someone announced as they rushed over to their child.

"Forever?" whispered the little princess, how sad the small monster would be all-alone.

"No!" pronounced the little princess, everyone in the room looked at her in surprise.

"Don't be silly child, it is for the small monster's own good."

"No, you mustn't lock him away, he's under a spell, and he's only a boy. We can't let him be unhappy too, we can't!" the little princess was distraught at the very thought.

Everyone looked at the little princess they did not want to see her unhappy. "What would you have us do?"

"I want him to come live with us, we can help him. He does not want to be wicked, he really doesn't." The girl pleaded, as she was given shakes of the head at her notion to help the small monster after all he had done to them.

"What if he does still want to make everyone unhappy?" someone asked not ready to believe that the monster had any good in him. Although it had been odd that they had been allowed to get enter the monster's castle without any trouble. The keys to the large gate were left on the little princess's family doorstep mysteriously.

"He doesn't, if he did I would banish myself." The little princess was confident about the small monster. He had appeared so lonely.

"Well, if you say so little princess we will." Several of the adults followed the little princess to the room where they had locked away the small monster. They unlocked the door opening it fractionally.

The little princess was so sad at the sight, for there on a stool sat the lonely small monster, he was crying into his small chubby hands.

"Please don't cry, I have come to take you home with me as I promised you." The little princess said softly, rushing over to the small monster, placing a tender arm around his shaking shoulders.

The small monster gazed up at the girl, giving her a grateful look. For the first time since she had seen the small monster he smiled at her, it was a toothless smile but it brought an answering one on the little princess' face.

"I can still come home with you and be happy?" the small monster asked slowly, as he glanced at the interested faces of the other people in the room, who had followed the girl.

"Yes small monster you can come home with me, and be happy." She held out her hand for him to take, helping him off the stool.  Together they went towards the others and a change of fortune.

Catherine saw that Lisa was falling asleep she therefore ended the story abruptly.

"Catherine what do we call the story?" Lisa mumbled only half-awake.

Catherine kissed the top of the red head smiling at the question. "We call the story, Lisa's Story."

"We do?" the child asked, unable to respond as she wanted for the tiredness was taking over. She didn't feel too bad about the darkness now, for Catherine was with her perhaps her monster was really under a wicked witches spell too.

"We do. Go to sleep Princess I'll be here when you wake up." Catherine crooned softly, gently pulling Lisa into a much more comfortable position on her lap.

"Want me to take her from you Ms. Warriorson?" Dave asked, when he came back a few minutes later to ask if they wanted anything else.

"Oh no Dave, not this time. This time she stays right here I'll be with her when she wakes up." Catherine smiled her thanks, bent again tenderly kissing the top of the child's head.

Some miracles were just worth fighting the very devil forÖ and small monsters too!
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Twenty-eight

"She wants us to do what?" Faith exclaimed as Alison Bardley relayed the message Catherine had asked her to do, when she hadn't the time herself.

"Oh Faith, really. Wasn't it you who said you loved to travel? Well, Catherine is giving you the chance; I think it's a wonderful idea. Wish she'd asked me, then again I think Jason would whinge a little, now he has been given the reins permanently here at Xianthos." Alison smiled as she considered that her husband wouldn't whinge, it wasn't in his nature, but he would certainly be upset.

"But Alison that will take us at least two day's to get there, that's without a break. What has got into the woman?" Faith was exasperated at the suggestion and gave a heavy sigh.

"Faith, Catherine said to take a stop over in Singapore or Hong Kong, whichever you prefer, and then take the next connection. You will have Jake with you, he's a very capable boy, so he will be more than helpful on the journey." Alison pointed out practically, she liked Faith but the woman did flap so.

"I suppose I can't really say no can I. If that's what Catherine wants, it will be good for them all to be back together again I know." Faith admitted reluctantly shaking her head at her foolish argument.

"That's right Faith, you might find you enjoy it too." Alison chuckled as she heard the acceptance in the other woman's voice.

"I'd better go inform Jake, and contact the school to let them know what's happening. I'll talk to you later Alison thanks for the call." Faith replied, now considering what to take on the trip.

"Yes, I'm sure he will enjoy going away it's been hard for him too I suspect. You have a great time we will catch up soon, bye Faith." Alison Bardley had done her duty as asked, she replaced the receiver and thought, ëwasn't her eldest daughter going to be surprised.'

Faith now had plans to make, and those plans needed accomplishing in two hours. Alison had mentioned that the first connection to Christchurch would be waiting for her and the children anytime now. The flight to the next destination was at her bequest; seats had been booked on either flight out in a little over six hours.

As she rushed down the hall to see Judy and find Jake, she smiled as she thought about the destination, now this was going to be different. She was doing more travelling since arriving here at Destiny, than she had the rest of her life put together. It was certainly never boring on the ranch, never likely to be either. Was her last thought as she went out the door.

~ ~ ~

James Thompson looked at the man opposite him he had rugged features that gave him a very macho look. Now that they had been together for the past three hours, spending most of that time talking amiably. It was clear the man was very sensitive to his surroundings and his heritage.

"Have you a family Captain?" James asked as he spun the glass of wine in his fingers, interested in the man's personal background. It was ludicrous to think that he was lucky enough to find that the man was gay, if you didn't ask you never found out anything, was his motto.

"I have family yes." The man said quietly, he looked fleetingly away towards the window that gave a decent view over the harbour.

"Have you always lived here on the island?" James thought he might as well ask as much as possible even if the information being given wasn't that informative.

"I was born here on the island, but went to the University in Athens for five years, then I joined the Police force in the capital and trained there. When the post of captain became available on the island I decided to take it, I missed the old place." The man answered quietly.

"Have you a family Mr. Thompson? Where do you live in America?" the Captain asked and gave James a long searching look as he posed the question.

James was not sure how to answer that at first, taking a long drink from his glass of wine, almost choking. He hadn't expected that the man would turn the tables on him. "If you do not want to answer then that is fine, we can go now and continue looking for your friend." The Captain was about to signal for the waiter to bring the bill, when James stopped him by placing a hand on his outstretched arm.

"No! No it's not that I don't want to answer. Please, I do and I will. My family now is the Warriorson family, Catherine and Jace. I guess the women love to adopt lonely strays." James laughed self-depreciatingly, as he uttered what seemed to be to him a stupid but true reflection of the man he had become.

"You were lonely? Yet you have an important and I would have said very social position in America, you work for a film studio?" the Captain was fascinated at the admission.

"My lover of many years was killed in a shooting incident over a year ago. I have been picking up the pieces ever since." James did not look at the man but at the checked cloth on the table. Tracing a pattern with the bottom of the wineglass unable for the moment to say any more on the subject it was still too painful to him.

"It is always difficult when a lover dies in such tragic circumstances." Captain Paul Artillius murmured as much to himself as he did to the man opposite him.

"You have experienced it too? James asked the man, glancing up quickly as they locked gazes.

"Yes, it was some time ago now when I was in Athens. One day there was a domestic dispute; my lover had the call and was fatally wounded. Time does heal the wounds but you never quite forget them."

"Yeah, everyone says time but it's still hard to get up every morning knowing you will never see them again." James whispered, and was surprised when a large hand gently touched his on the table.

"Yes James Thompson it is hard, if you allow yourself to feel again I'm sure the healing will begin." Paul Artillius removed his hand, waving over the waiter to ask for the check.

As they waited for the check, the Captain asked James again where exactly in America he was from.

"Oh sorry. Los Angeles born and raised, I'm proud of my city too." James couldn't imagine living anywhere else in the world that had always been a subject of amusement with Paul.

"Ah, the movie capital of the world. I have always wanted to visit Hollywood." Captain Artillius smiled as he paid the waiter and they went on their way towards the parked vehicle.

James silently added, "anytime Captain you want to visit, the offer is open, anytime at all." Smiling he got into the passenger side as they went back to the police building in the hope of news of Kelsey.

~ ~ ~

Jason had been amazed that morning when Catherine had offered him the permanent position as chairman of Xianthos. Although it wasn't a shock exactly, he had been surprised that she was willing to give him absolute control.

"I want you to have total control Jason, no interference from me, except if you fail to make me any money at all. However, you will have the grandchildren to contend with more than me if that happens." Catherine had chuckled at Jason's face; he had gone from a grey pallor to a shocking pink at the conversation.

"How do you know I won't squander millions of dollars and bankrupt you?" Jason asked quietly, his voice tight with the emotion he was feeling.

"Can't see that happening Jason. I happen to have more interests than Xianthos that is merely the flagship my father built. My own personal fortune is safe, making a tidy sum each year. So no you could not possibly bankrupt me. The children's inheritance, now that's another thing altogether." Catherine gave him a deadpan expression watching him swallow hard.

"Jason you're more of a publishing person than I will ever be or have been! It is in your blood; I cannot see you letting anyone take Xianthos down, can you? Anyway, the chairperson is more of an advisor these days than the person at the helm of the ship." Catherine explained pleased at the change to normal colour that he exhibited.

"I guess you're right. I do have some wonderful talented people working for the company, so I just sit back and watch it all happen." Jason smiled, walking over to the picture window overlooking the lake below.

This to him was like going home; it was in his blood. Catherine was right; he had loved every minute of the weeks he'd been left in charge. It was a new lease of life for him; he felt he could carry on indefinitely, or until Alison made him retire.

"I guess you have a new permanent chairman of Xianthos."

Catherine smiled at her father in law; keep it in the family that was her motto. She was confident that he would take great care of the children's heritage.

"Constance will be pleased, not to mention Rita. Who, I think has a soft spot for you." Catherine laughed as he blushed at the teasing.

"Yes, well don't you go telling my wife that or I could be in big trouble." Jason laughed himself at the notion, but he did like Rita she had proved an excellent PA.

"Don't worry I won't and Jason? Rita has a soft spot for the whole family. She makes wonderful pots of tea too, if ever you need a soothing brew after all those ridiculous meetings." Catherine informed him with a wry smile.

"Ah, the meetings are only ridiculous because you don't like them yourself." Jason replied his eyes twinkling as he saw the laughter embedded in hers. He could see how his eldest was totally taken with the woman; it would not take much for him to fall too, if he didn't love Alison so much.

"True Jason, very true. IF ever you need me I'm a call away, but I suspect that the only call you'll be making is to advise me on bringing up my children, right?"

"I certainly hope so Catherine, it will be my pleasure." Jason sat down in the seat opposite her, they both smiled warmly at the other as each lost themselves in their own thoughts.

Now here he was the chairman of one of the largest publishing operations in the world! Now that was some achievement from the boy from the poor end of town and how! He had taken on a secret project, which he needed to complete in less than six months. It was going to give him as much pleasure to complete as it would the person who was going to receive it.

Time to weald the power of a chairman!

~ ~ ~

Constantia looked at the pensive withdrawn look on her godson's face and felt her heart go out to him in compassion. It was clear to her that he was a little if not very much in love with Althea Spiros. He might not acknowledge it, but she had seen the furtive looks he gave the younger woman when she came to the villa. Now the tragedy and supposed stigma, which now attached itself to the woman might have a detrimental effect on their future.

How did one counter such despair?

"Lukas?" Constantia spoke with a determined voice.

Lukas heard his godmother call him; he wasn't in the mood to talk, as this had all been too much to take in.  Although he loved the woman who had called his name, for the moment he wanted to be alone with his thoughts however melancholy they were.

"Lukas." This time the tone was sharper. He turned around with a bleak expression to find his gaze captured by warm loving ice blue eyes.

"Yes Constantia, I'm sorry I was thinking." Lukas apologised for his initial rudeness.

"I see that, may I ask what it is you are thinking that makes you appear so sad?" Constantia wheeled her chair over to his side and placed a gentle hand on his arm.

"It has been a very interesting few days." Lukas replied grimly.

"Oh my dear, dear boy it has been more than interesting, it has been a tragedy. I wish it were not so, but I cannot change the past only hope that the future is much better." The woman replied, her voice filled with sincere emotion.

"How can the future be much better? People are dead, lives have been ruined, and for what?" Lukas cried out, his anguish finally coming to the fore.

"Lukas, sometimes we have to deal with tragic events for us to learn to appreciate the good things we have in our life. To make sure that we live the good parts fully appreciating them. It is the way we all live our lives Lukas, no one is sheltered from tragedy totally." Constantia tried to explain as coherently as she could, when she herself often had wondered at its true purpose.

"She might never get over this." Lukas responded quietly.

Constantia looked at the hurt in his eyes, knowing immediately whom he referred to. Tenderly holding his large hand in her frail one. "She will Lukas, she will, you will be there to help her."

Lukas was silent, as he felt the strength of this woman at his side flow from the fragile hand she held his much larger one with "I'll be there if she needs me."
 

Constantia smiled at the whispered words, pondering that in this world if more people accepted that they needed others in their lives, how much simpler it would all be.

"You know the doctors called me this morning, they said that Sarah could come home tomorrow, if she rested. Between us Lukas we will need to ensure she does just that, you know of course what that means?" Constantia felt immense happiness welcoming the thought of her friend coming home from the hospital it was a wonderful relief.

Lukas looked at her for several seconds blinked as he considered her question, then it suddenly dawned on him, he smiled briefly. "Oh no tea!"

"Precisely my dear boy tea. Our Sarah will be out of bed if we don't get that particular beverage right  the first time. What do you say we go and practice?" Constantia was relieved to see the smile cross his face.

Jace chose that moment to enter the room, wishing them good morning. "Did I hear someone say tea?"

"Good morning Jace, yes Sarah will be home tomorrow. We need to keep her rested, if she doesn't get a decent cup of tea she will not do so." Constantia explained embarrassed at her words.

"Oh well, I know someone who is a master of tea making, who will gladly help us." Jace smiled as she considered the identity of the ëmaster'.

"Who would that be Jace?"

"Why none other than Grace Montgomery. She was getting restless stuck in her room, I'm positive a little light exercise would help her enormously." Jace stated, as she turned to leave the room in search of her friend.

"Jace I thought you were leaving today?" Constantia asked surprised that she had offered. They had discussed the two of them leaving on the afternoon ferry.

"Yes well, as you know we did plan to. However, I talked with Catherine a little earlier. When she heard the full facts about Grace, she said to stay a couple of days more to allow her to rest. She would send her own personal flight to pick us up at Athens and she would make all the arrangements." Jace let a warm glow pass over her as she thought about her conversation with Catherine. Who was so very apologetic over falling asleep on her that they had made some nice plans to work out the apology later. She'd even talked with Lisa who seemed to be her usual incorrigible self. Nevertheless, they would take that with a pinch of salt. The trauma would rear itself at some time but they would be ready for it when it did, that was a promise she and Catherine had made.

"In that case, Lukas and I welcome your help, thank you Jace." Constantia replied warmly.

"No problem, after all that's what family is for, right?" Jace left the two of them alone to find Grace.

Constantia starred at the closed door as the blonde left with those parting words. Silently answering, ëyes Jace that is exactly what family is for.'

She turned back to Lukas they smiled as he went behind the chair. Together they went towards the kitchen to practice the art of tea making.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Twenty-nine

"I can't see how moving her to the mainland will be a help." Doctor Angela Cristal answered angrily. What gave the police the right to interfere with one of her patients, especially one as injured as the foreigner was.

"Doctor, the woman is dangerous we haven't the necessary facilities to ensure she does not endanger others!" Captain Artillius smoothly retorted. This doctor was admirable in her sentiment but the woman in the bed two metres away did not deserve this treatment.

"How can you say that, she is unable to move? Her injuries are so severe! It would take the will of the devil himself to achieve anything dangerous!" The doctor looked towards the bed, the woman appeared to be sleeping.

"Perhaps at the moment she is not but who's to say in a couple of days she might be capable. I'm sorry doctor but I've called for the necessary services to be here by the morning, she will be moved!" Captain Artillius replied his voice harsh brooking no argument.

"Captain, the woman is ill not only physically but mentally too, she surely wasn't in her right mind at the time of the alleged crime." Doctor Cristal murmured, knowing she was losing the battle to care for the woman.

"Oh, I'd agree big time that she is a mental case, although I hope it will be proven that she was sane enough to know what she was doing. There are a couple of bodies in the morgue right now that can testify to her atrocities, another one on its way." The Captain had hoped that the detective from New York would turn up alive and well, but that wasn't to be. They had found his body in a disused building several miles outside of town. Someone had seen a vehicle being driven by a foreigner around the area earlier, duly informing the authorities.

It was a small close-knit community after all. The island was shocked at the events that had transpired at Villa Xianthos. Miss Xianthos was a well-respected resident. Instrumental in the last few years for helping to bring the island up to date with current technology, to the extent that she had financed a small information technology school. She knew the meaning of keeping up to date, also that not everyone enjoyed the travelling away from home that often happened, decimating families and communities on the smaller Greek islands.

"Perhaps if we were to allow your officers to keep a check on the room as you are now, then we could be sure that the move would not be detrimental to her." Doctor Cristal sighed as she realised that the man had a valid point.

"I don't have the manpower to keep a constant vigil over her. The mainland does and will do so adequately, I'm sorry Doctor but she will be moved." Captain Artillius stated clearly turning to walk away.

"I'll have her ready for the journey Captain, however I must remind you if anything happens to her, it's on your head." The Doctor stated equally clearly.

Artillius smiled at her briefly inclining his head acknowledging the responsibility as he made for the door.

Doctor Cristal watched the Police Captain leave the room shaking her head. Her thoughts mixed as she considered what she had to do to prepare her patient for the journey. There was a very good chance that she would die! Who the hell seemed to care about that? Not the Captain, and certainly no one on the island and who had seen the event anyway? The woman, having been condemned without a trial, which surely was not right! No matter what they had done, that was to her the unfair part, what if she was innocent?

Giving another heavy sigh she checked her patient once more, then turned to leave the room, unable to see the bright eyes of her patient open suddenly with a glint buried within that couldn't be deciphered.

~ ~ ~

Constance paced the floor of the lounge as she waited for Clare to bring in the coffee after their dinner. It had been a rather romantic affair, several courses even the chilling champagne on ice.

It had been difficult to resist Clare's charms her insistence of a solitary glass of wine, caused Constance to consider that she and Clare hadn't as yet addressed the problems that had occurred when Clare had left her. Her mind told her that it was over. So, why bring it up? Her heart told her that she must clear up the old issues before they could ever hope to achieve a solid lasting relationship.

There was no better time than now!

The door to the room opened Clare walking in with a tray laden with freshly brewed coffee and chocolates to accompany the beverage.

"Want to get the liqueurs Constance? We can add them to the coffee that will finish off the meal don't you think?" Clare smiled as she deposited the tray on the coffee table. Sinking into the sofa waiting for Constance to retrieve the liqueurs from the drinks cabinet three feet away from her.

Constance sucked in a shaky breath, ëmy god what if Clare didn't love her when she revealed the truth Hell she hadn't exactly been responsible had she, to have her boss and Rita save her from the gutter, how embarrassing could that be?'

Unable to move away from the spot she seemed glued to, she turned suddenly with a weak smile as she shook her head. "Clare, I'm sorry but there aren't any liqueurs in the cabinet. In fact there isn't any alcohol in the house except what you bought today."

Clare looked up into anguished brown velvety eyes, a look of puzzlement passed over her face as she gazed intently at Constance.

Constance starred equally as intently back at her lover hoping she would understand without having to go through the agony of the confession.

"Oh I know, you didn't get time to replace anything and you ran out. I told you that you get pre-occupied with work, that's okay I'll go out tomorrow and fill up again."

"No!"

"No? Why not?" Clare was now intrigued but at the same time the pain behind the words did hit her squarely something was wrong.

"Clare sitÖoh sorry you are sitting." Constance gave a small rueful smile at her own stupidity.

The nervous tension emanating from her lover scared Clare, as she held out her hand. "How about YOU sit here beside me, tell me all about what's bothering you. I promise not to interrupt, I'm sure everything will be okay, please Constance trust me?"

"I trust you with my life Clare, you would be surprised at how my life hangs in the balance without you." Constance walked unsteadily over to sit rigidly beside her lover, or maybe ex-lover when all this was over.

"I won't bite." Clare smiled lovingly at the pensive woman at her side.

Constance laughed hollowly at the light comment sighing heavily.

"It's like this Clare, when you left wellÖwellÖ." Constance looked down at her well-manicured nails contemplating how to put her new life back into the hands of this woman, was she strong enough to survive if Clare rejected her when all was revealed?

"I love you Constance nothing is that bad, trust me! Please, tell me what's bothering you?" Clare's voice was warm, loving and something in the intonation made Constance relax and begin her tale of woe.

"Clare when you left me I fell apartÖ."

~ ~ ~

"Grace, have you told Colin about the little scare we've had here with the baby?" Jace asked, as she sat on the lounger next to her taking in the beauty of the deep blue sea and the picturesque bay that gave off a very relaxing peaceful ambience. Remarkably considering their traumatic days here on Xianspiros.

Grace gave a sheepish grin as she shook her head. "No, thought it might wait until I was home, I can explain it to him properly then, he could see that I was okay. Rather than have him worry until I arrived home, you know how it is?"

Jace mused that one for a few seconds, grinning infectiously at her friend. "Yeah I know how that one goes. I'm married to someone who I swear has taken a course in just those situations."

Grace laughed gazing over the tranquil setting, her thoughts strayed momentarily to George Spiros and his help when she had been sure her time had come to leave this life.

"Keep hold of my hand." George demanded of the half unconscious woman, who if he hadn't acted as quickly as he had would be lying broken and dead at the bottom of the hillside.

"I'm trying." Grace whispered half-heartedly, and felt the strong warm hand grasp hers as if it would never let go. That created a surge of energy within her own body as she tried to focus on the task ahead.

"Good, that's good. Now please I will not hurt you come this way towards me." George commanded gently his tone one of concern not aggression.

"IÖI will." Grace took tentative steps towards the voice, the pain in her abdomen making it virtually impossible to do more than take tiny steps. She was losing the baby, which was the bottom line here, there was nothing she could do about it now.

"Yes you will! Or I am not a Spiros. No woman has ever denied me her company. You will not be the first." George spoke softly, Grace could hear the sincerity in his voice also the banter, she was no longer afraid; perhaps this could save her baby. What did she have to lose?

Several small tentative steps later Grace was hauled gently over the railing settling onto the balcony floor, her breathing was ragged the pain acute but she was alive. Looking up into the rugged but handsome features of the man who saved her she asked a question with her eyes.

"Hey, don't look at me like that, it's what anyone would do!" George was a little embarrassed at the regard.

"You were sent to kill meÖ" Grace sucked in a breath as a sharp pain seared her.

"Are you alright?" George bent down touching her forehead in concern.

"Yes, well that is no. I think I'm losing the baby." Grace stated matter-of-factly yet inside she was crying at the situation.

George looked around saying quietly. "Have you called the police?"

Grace looked up with eyes clouded in pain as she nodded at his question.

"Good! I would have done so on your behalf had you not." The Greek said softly, stood up and pulled out his gun.

Grace shivered involuntarily at the action wondering why he had saved her if all he wanted to do now was kill her.

A gunshot rung out as he fired into the clear blue skies then replaced the gun in his pocket.

"Why?" Grace whispered.

"Why? Because I cannot take your unborn child's life." He stated simply.

"But you didn't know that when you saved me." Grace questioned him.

"True, but perhaps I do want it all to end this way. I'm more a lover than a fighter, certainly no murderer of innocent people. My sister was right!" George answered quietly his thoughts obviously miles away.

"Thank you." Grace replied, what else did you say?

George turned a bright smile to her; Grace could quite see how many women would be interested romantically with him, yes a lover definitely.

"No! Thank you, now I must go. Please stay quiet, perhaps the little one will welcome the rest." George Spiros knelt down briefly touching the small bulge that represented Grace's child.

"Where are you going?" Grace asked, unsure what was really happening around her it was happening so fast.

"Where? A good question one I will find out soon enough. Please rest, the police will be here soon then all will be well." He walked quickly away towards the broken down door out of her view.

That had been the last time she had seen him, would ever see him aliveIt brought a tear of sadness to her as she looked over the water.

"Grace are you okay? Are you having pains? Is it the baby?" Jace asked anxiously as she saw the single tear fall.

Looking up surprised that Jace had noticed the slight weakness. "I'm fine Jace, actually the doctor Constantia insisted I see yesterday said the baby was just giving me a taste of my own medicine. I'll have to remember that in the future won't I?"

Jace smiled warmly at her friend. "So, why the tear?"

"I was just thinking how fragile life was. How suddenly an event can change how we perceive something, changing our whole outlook on life." Grace whispered preoccupied with her thoughts.

Considering what her friend had said they sat in quiet reflection before Jace answered her. "Yes, I agree my friend. Lisa's abduction was another milestone in my life that has made me review how I see things once again. You know, I never thought something could strengthen how I felt about Catherine. But Grace it just brought it home to me with so much clarity that she's the only one that I want to spend my life with, however good or bad it happens to be. Just knowing she's going to be there is worth every minute of sorrow that comes our way, I hope deep down that she feels exactly the same."

Grace turned surprised brown speculative eyes in her direction at the words. "You have any doubts?"

Moving out of her lounger, Jace walked over to the balcony leaning against the railing with the light cool breeze blowing back her blonde hair. Her shoulders slumped a little as she considered her answer to the woman in the room with her. Grace knew her very well, as she did Catherine too.

"At one time Grace, yes I did. Nothing I did was good enough she always wanted to be that much stronger take all the pain and hurt on her shoulders. This time Grace, this time Catherine needed me! It was as if she'd finally found her path to the light, and she wanted me to walk along it with her. I just hope when things settle down she will still want me alongside her, even on the dark paths as well."

"Jace, I want to tell you something about Catherine that over the years I've seen. A purely personal view, but I think reasonably accurate." Grace pulled at her bottom lip in concentration.

"Go ahead." The blonde turned to stare at her friend as she began an assessment of the woman she loved.

"When I first met Catherine she was the most sullen, morose woman I've ever come across, beautiful but cold. She would drink heavily to forget her pain, never spoke to people for weeks at a time, not even Colin or I. She'd eventually surface, sometimes wanting to pick a fight for the sheer hell of it. Colin steered clear, but I wanted to know what had happened to make someone this angry at the world. A year after I went to live at Destiny she challenged me to a drinking session, it was unusual so how could I say no. I found out about Adam and Lukas, it was a break through. Over the next couple of years she related something about her original background, not everything, as you know, but snippets here and there. She was a child inside a very complex woman, who needed to find someone who could and would love her unconditionally. Who could break down the barriers with unconditional love making it so painless she would want to keep them down." Grace sat quietly for a moment her eyes far away on memories that gave her a sad, although not unhappy expression.

"You gave her that Grace." Jace whispered as she heard the raw emotion in the words.

Grace glanced up sharply at the comment, laughed quietly. Shaking her head as she continued.

"No, no not me Jace. It was going to be six years after I met her that someone would come into her life and light that beacon of hope within her heart. She's my friend Jace, I'll love her as a friend forever no matter what she says or does. Even things I don't particularly care for, but at the end of it all she's worth going that extra mile for. When you came into her life Jace, she was frightened of removing the barriers; afraid you might go away. You did, and all she wanted to do was allow you home again, that home was in her heart you were the other half of her soul, always will be. I think the child in Catherine has finally grown up Jace, she's now a whole woman, admittedly complex always will be but she's going to want you on her journey forever, never ever doubt that." Grace spoke quietly but the raw emotion behind every word brought a lump in Jace's throat.

"You've tried to explain this to me before Grace, this time I understand completely. Thank you for allowing me the chance to have her in my life." Jace said sincerely, for she knew that had it not been for Grace's tolerance of Catherine's obnoxious behaviour in the early days the chances of them ever meeting in this life would have been slim, not impossible, but slim.

Grace chuckled as she blinked away the weakening sun. "You're welcome Jace. Okay, when are we all going to get together again as a family?"

Laughing happily at the thought of the family all being together, "Oh soon I hope, as soon as you can travel."

"Well, my dear Mrs. Warriorson how about making those plans to travel tomorrow? Sarah gets home later today, once I've shown Constantia and Lukas how to make a decent pot of tea we can leave."

Jace giggled. "Grace that could be months or never with those two, look how they were in the kitchen yesterday!"

Grace stroked her chin. "Yeah, well okay another lesson today then." Laughing the two friends looked over the sea considering how lucky they were to have so much to look forward to in the future, indeed it was a miracle they had a future.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty

Catherine looked at the various shop windows of souvenirs as she strolled along with Lisa in the airport in Athens. They had moved out of the first class lounge to have a break while they waited for the flight from the Far East and the other members of the family to join them.

It was going to be good to see Jake and Elena she had missed them. Although Lisa was looking good considering the ordeal, she'd been through. It was hard not to consider occasionally that at any moment, the child might crack then all the pain and anger over the situation would come tumbling out. Catherine wasn't sure she could handle it on her own even with Jace she knew that they might struggle. With her partner she felt like she could tackle anything the world had to offer as long as it was together. Okay, perhaps they might need medical help as well!

"Catherine, when are the others coming?" Lisa tugged on Catherine's hand to draw her attention to her question.

Catherine smiled from her advantage point. Yes, her daughter hadn't lost any of her spunk that was a certainty.

Glancing at her watch she calculated when they would arrive. "About an hour Lisa, then we will be heading to my Aunt's home to meet up with Jace and Grace. We can have that holiday, what do you say?"

Lisa grinned her small frame shook with the happiness Catherine could feel emanate from her. "Yeah! Can we stay for a long, long time? Please Catherine!"

Catherine could not help it she picked up the child hugging her tight; Lisa placed her frail arms around her neck. Effectively creasing the silk blouse, she wore also dishevelling her hair. But it didn't matter; the sheer fact she could do this to Lisa was a miracle she wasn't ever going to take for granted again.

"Well, let's see what Jace says first shall we, after all it will be a surprise for your Mom won't it. I haven't told her we are coming yet." Catherine whispered in Lisa's ear and heard the giggle from the child.

"She'll let us stay for a long, long time if you are there with us." Lisa stated matter-of-factly, Catherine then gave her  a fiercer hug if that was possible without crushing the child.
"You might well be right Lisa. So, let's go find something to buy shall we?" Catherine slowly dropped the child to the ground, kissed the top of her head as they headed off along the corridor in search of things to buy.

~ ~ ~

James Thompson sat quietly in the corner of the hotel lounge with a large vodka on the rocks, starring into space. His thoughts on Kelsey, who he'd, had to identify only a few short hours earlier.

It hadn't been a pleasant sight he'd felt sick to his stomach as soon as he could had left the mortuary hailing a taxi that had taken him to the harbour, where he'd spent several minutes in tears. He hadn't particularly cared that much for the detective, they hadn't had time to get to know each other well enough. At the same time he hadn't deserved to be brutally murdered and mutilated was the only word he could think of to cover the damage the gunshots had inflicted on his body.

He had been around long enough to know that evil people were in the world, but when you came face to face with the horror of such a person. What terrible things they were capable of, he felt that he was as naive as he'd been as a teenager setting off on the brink of life's education.

As he had wandered aimlessly around the harbour taking in the tranquillity and peaceful setting, his mind had settled down, he could think coherently again. Watching the gulls swooping down into the sea some of them coming up with the captured prey that they would feast upon, he considered how some people were gulls. Then others were the prey, innocent prey usually, going about their normal day today routine, until suddenly they are captured within events and situations that lay claim to the rest of their lives. For some it might be the last thing they ever experience, for others it might be the memories that haunt them, or experiences that shape how they live their future life.

That had been the case with Paul's death it had changed his life forever, bringing new people and situations into his life that made him want to consider living again. One person could touch your life however fleetingly changing it drastically, as his had done.

Once again he was faced with a tragedy, although it didn't have the impact that Paul's death had, events had occurred that had brought new people into his life again he was changing once more. This time perhaps wholly back into the land of the living rather than living only a half-life.

As he looked at the horizon he smiled weakly as he turned to walk the mile back to his hotel to a long much-needed shower, it was time to go home!

Now having booked on the ferry to the mainland that evening, he sat drinking one of his favourite drinks, vodka on the rocks. He'd called Jace who was going to be here shortly to have an early dinner with him and say goodbye. He was pleased, at least she and the others in the villa hadn't been hurt or at least not too badly anyway.

As his thoughts wandered once again he was brought out of his preoccupation by a throat clearing at his side. Glancing up he was suddenly caught off balance as he starred into the brown serious eyes of Demitri Artillius.

"Captain? I'm sorry I didn't see you there." James quickly replied as he struggled to get out of his seat.

"No, that is okay Mr. Thompson, I didn't want to disturb you but I heard that you were leaving this evening." The Captain replied seriously, as he waved over the waiter, speaking rapidly in Greek, seating himself opposite James.

"Yes, I'm sorry did you need me to stay longer? I thought that now that detective Kelsey was found and identified, I could go home, later if you need me back I will arrange to return." James unsure of why the man was here, not that he minded at all, he liked the Captain, if he was honest more than liked him.

"That is un-necessary as you say, we may need you later as a witness but that will be for the lawyers and courts, not my jurisdiction. I just wanted to thank you for your help also offer my condolences on the death of your friend." The Captain spoke rapidly again as the waiter left him an iced tea placing another tall drink in front of James.

"He wasn't exactly a friend, more a working colleague." James looked down at the fresh drink picking up his original one drinking the contents until the glass was empty.

"Isn't it rather strange to have a work colleague as a detective in your particular profession?" The man picked up his iced tea, sipped it waiting for the answer to his question.

"Well, it was more in his line than mine, research for a friend shall we say." James smiled as he considered how much he should reveal.

"Then perhaps one day you might let me know what type of research, for the moment it can wait. Would you care to have dinner with me as this is your last evening?" Demitri Artillius asked in a tone that gave nothing away as to his reason behind the offer.

James wanted so much to say yes. Oh god he wanted that so much, but he'd promised to have dinner with Jace, it was far too late to break that dinner date she would be here shortly.

"I'm sorry I can't." James finally managed to utter.

Demitri Artillius smiled wryly as he sipped again from his beverage. "Okay, I understand."

James had been watching the man; the words did not go with his body language no way! He wasn't good at publicity issues without reason.

"You do? What exactly do you understand?"

Clearing his throat once again he answered quietly. "I can understand that you would prefer to put all this behind you not be involved with anyone that could bring it back to you."

James shook his head slowly picked up the fresh drink took a deep draught of it causing him to choke slightly as the liquid slid down his throat sending a burning sensation with it.

"No! No please don't think that it isn't true." James placed a hand on the Captain's trying to reinforce the exclamation.

Demitri glanced down at the hand that was placed on his, he then swung his gaze up suddenly capturing James' distressed expression.

"I'm glad. How could I convince you that a return visit in happier times might be a good idea, if that were so?"

James felt as if he'd been handed an unexpected gift as he smiled warmly at the man, he removed his hand reluctantly they both went silent for a short time.

"You wouldn't change your mind about dinner I suppose?" Demitri asked him as he placed his hands around the iced tea.

"I'm really sorry CaptainÖ." He was stopped from answering.

"My name is Demitri Artillius, James Thompson."

"Then I'm sorry Demitri, but my friend Jace Warriorson kindly invited me for dinner she's due anytime now. Perhaps you could join us instead?" James crossed his fingers under the table as he asked.

"That would be rather rude of me as your friend has invited you to dinner not me. I should be going on my way." Demitri stood up, James followed suit as they both faced each other, both of the same height and build.

"Jace wouldn't mind I'm sure!" James said surprised when another voiced joined in.

"What wouldn't I mind James?" Jace asked, curious as her name was mentioned who came round the table to hug her friend, kissed his cheek then smiled at the Police Captain holding out her hand in a friendly gesture.

"Jace? Why Jace I was saying you wouldn't mind if Demitri joined us for dinner, would you?" James spoke quickly as he hugged Jace then turned back to the police officer.

Jace hadn't lost the significance of the use of the Police Captain's first name, or how James had said the name.

"No, of course I wouldn't by all means join us Captain." Jace smiled as she settled down in the chairwatched the two men look at each other. Her matchmaking instincts now in control, James deserved to find happiness and why not have some good come out of the tragedy "I would be honoured to join you for dinner, but let me please be the host? It is after all my country." Demitri spoke to them both but his eyes never left James's face as he made the offer.

Jace did not say anything; she was quietly taking in the exchange that was passing between the two men. It was good to see; hey, she had some gossip for Catherine. Not that Catherine was the gossiping type, or claimed not to be anyway, but James was family! She'd want to know what was happening in the family.

James grinned as if a schoolboy, turning to Jace, "okay with you Jace?"

"No problem with me, happy to be taken to dinner by two handsome men. Anyway James, you could always invite the Captain to dinner in our country one day, a fair exchange wouldn't you both agree?" Jace smiled, indicating the seat next to her for James to sit down.

"Mrs. Warriorson perhaps you might call me Demitri, Captain is rather informal, after all I have invited you to dinner." The man said with a chuckle as he sat opposite them, requesting the waiter again to order more drinks.

"Thank you Demitri, you had better call me Jace. As much as I love having the title, I'm afraid it's far too formal for me. My wife is the formal part of the partnership." Jace laconically replied startled at the next words from Demitri.

"Your wife?" James was stunned into speechlessness looking apologetically towards Jace, as Demitri asked.

Jace laughed at the surprise on the Captain's face, not to mention the stunned look on James. "Well, yeah my wife, she's the more formal or should I say formidable one of the partnership. Isn't that so James?"

James quietly agreed, surprised once again when Demitri laughed at the expression. "I know what you mean by that my deceased partner Raoul always said I had that trait in the partnership too."

James swallowed hard, as he had been given the information he had suspected. "Yeah, Paul was in our partnership too."

Demitri Artillius picked up his glass raising it for a toast, "To our loves of the past, present and for some of us the future."

James and Jace raised their glasses acknowledge the toast, Jace smiled inwardly as she silently added. ëTo Catherine, you are the love of my past, present and future, forever!'

"So Demitri, where do you plan to take us to dinner?" Jace asked as they happily discussed what they would prefer to eat.

~ ~ ~

Catherine placed a gentle hand on the cheek of Lisa, who was sleeping soundly next to an exhausted Jake, who peered up at her with one eye shut the other closed, forcing himself to look at her.

"I'll take care of her Catherine." Jake whispered then shut his eyes as he too finally fell asleep but with an arm around his sister.

Catherine didn't answer as a lump developed in her throat he was asleep before she could clear it.

The reunion of the children had been very emotional even Jake had cried as he'd swung Lisa up and around in a clear demonstration of his love for the girl. He'd even said that he loved her too that had brought a delighted smile to the face of his sister who had then kissed him several times on the cheek. Jake had finally relinquished his hold on her to get away from the interested stares he was receiving from others in the area, not to mention Catherine who was grinning happily.

Elena had been more vocal screaming her delight at seeing both Lisa and Catherine, it was plain to see that Lisa was the favourite, after all they played for hours together, Catherine had reasoned ruefully. As Faith let go of the toddler's hand, she waddled surprisingly quickly towards them. Elena lifting up her arms to Lisa, then Catherine as Lisa immediately picked up her sister then dropped her unceremoniously as the baby's weight was too much for her. Two sets of tearful eyes had looked at Catherine for different reasons. She kissed Lisa on the cheek swung her up on her left side, Elena was then deftly retrieved from the floor and placed on her right side. Quite the only way to deal with these two girls, she was sure that Elena now weighed more than Lisa. They would have to feed up their eldest daughter; she was certain that in Greece there would be plenty of dishes to solve that problem.

Faith had just cried and cried Catherine had to wipe her own hand several times across her slightly damp eyes, to stem the flow that seemed to want to create a waterfall down her cheeks. The joy of the reunion was only marginally marred by the fact that Jace wasn't here, but soon very soon she would be.

The charter aircraft that was flying them to the island was now little more than two hours away. Although Catherine herself was weary, she knew that until she was in Jace's arms she wouldn't be home, and therefore couldn't rest properly until that happened.

Faith gently spoke into the quiet cabin. "Catherine, why don't you sleep for a short time you look exhausted."

"I am exhausted Faith, but I want to keep watch over my family. Just to see them all together, do you understand?" Catherine stated softly, her voiced filled with the awe of the situation as she scanned the sleeping tousled heads of Lisa and Jake. Then to Elena who was next to Faith sleeping peacefully, the edge of her favourite blanket stuck in her mouth as a comforter.

"That's understandable, but they would want you to rest too Catherine." Faith practically pointed out.

"How about you rest now, when we get to the Island I'll see what I can do on that score." Catherine answered absently, her mind drifting to the wonderful thought of her partner who was waiting for her.

Faith smiled there was no point saying more, the woman wouldn't sleep, never did unless Jace was there with her. Grace had once explained that to her, recently she had seen it for herself.

"Wake me if you need me Catherine, please?"

"I will, thanks Faith." Catherine sat sideways on one of the seats keeping her silent but satisfying lookout over ALL of her children.

~ ~ ~

Demitri Artillius had dropped off James Thompson at the jetty to board the ferry back to the mainland. Then he had taken Jace Warriorson back to the villa, watched as she mounted the steps as the door opened to allow her inside. Driving away, his thoughts filled with the man that had just left his life and the final words they'd exchanged.

"You have a safe journey James to Athens, and your onward journey home to America." Demitri held out a hand to shake the American's.

James grasped the hand held out to him, as he would have a lifeline, for some reason it felt like that to him. "I will Demitri thank you for dinner and your help."

"I meant what I said earlier if ever you venture this way again James, perhaps we can spend some time together, happier times." Demitri said his words with a hopeful element in them.

James shuffled his feet as he looked down at them, suddenly feeling gauche totally without confidence. "I'd like that." He finally responded.

Demitri chuckled as he saw the confidence that the man usually portrayed disappear into shyness.

"So would I, I hope it will be sooner rather than later."

James didn't hesitate this time. "It will, would you consider spending some time with me in my country?" There it was out the invitation he'd wanted to give on their first dinner engagement.

The ferry was under final loading Demitri held James' hand a little longer, probably longer than he should if he wanted to keep his intentions secret. But what the hell if the man didn't know he was interested why would he come back thousands of miles to see him.

"I think that's a good idea one I'd love to accept." Demitri smiled finally relinquishing James' hand as he helped him with his bag.

James turned waved to Jace who was seated in the police vehicle, Demitri having insisted that he would take her home. They had said their goodbyes for the moment after all they would definitely meet again.

"Goodbye James Thompson, until we meet again." Demitri smiled warmly at him, as James headed for the entrance to the ferry.

"Goodbye Demitri Artillius, until we meet again." He entered the dark recess's of the ferry for the first leg of the journey home.

So, that had been that. Something in his heart told him that it wasn't the end, only the beginning. Smiling he answered his phone that had begun to ring.

"Artillius." he barked out, all other thoughts shifted to the back burner as he listened to the message.

"Captain we have a problem!"

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-one

Clare held Constance in her arms tenderly as she cried softly into her shoulder that had been some admission she'd listened too.

Stroking the silky brown hair of her lover, she could not, at first understand why Constance would have broken down in such a way so soon after they parted. Then she considered the tremendous amount of strains she was under at Xianthos and the tragic events that she had encountered in her three years in America. What with Paul's death and her own serious injuries, along with Gareth's suicide, the sheer pressure to work through it all and keep Xianthos afloat in a vicious market place. Was there any wonder that a crack or two had appeared been papered over to make it look as if everything was okay. When really it hadn't been!

Clare felt heart sick, and a little angry with herself that she hadn't seen the strain or considered Constance's well-being before her own selfish desires before Constance's well being. After all, it wasn't just a lover walking out of her life she had walked out on the business environment too as well, which must have created havoc initially. Rita was an excellent PA but you get used to how people work it takes time to regain a routine with someone new.

Suddenly Constance raised red-rimmed eyes to her clear sympathetic ones, a question buried just on the surface.

Clare smiled lovingly at the woman held in her arms as she paused momentarily to take a deep breath before she spoke.

Constance took that as a sign that Clare wasn't sure what to say.

"I guess you might want to reconsider your options in light of my confession. It could be difficult living with someone who might crack wide open to fall flat into the gutter again?"

Clare was astounded by the words, and shook her head as she realised her slight hesitation had brought on the speech.

"No! No please Constance don't shut me out, we've come too far for that. As far as I'm considered I reconsidered my options a long time ago I came back, back to the only place that will be home." Clare stated emphatically.

Constance raised her right eyebrow slightly. "The apartment will always be home to you Clare, whenever you need to use it."

"Oh my love, it isn't the apartment it's you! You are MY home always will be. Darling let me tell you one thing, if I'd had as many problems in the last couple of years that you have suffered, I think I would have lost my mind by now." She replied sincerely the honest appreciation of what her lover had gone through clearly expressed on her face.

"You want to stay with me?" A whisper into the quiet room you had to strain to hear it but she did.

"Stay with you? Try and stop me being with you, it would take a court order and then some!" Clare laughed softly as she saw Constance's face clear magically to one of tentative joy.

"I think a court order would be difficult to achieve as I never want to be apart from you Clare, I love you so much." Constance smiled tenderly at the woman who still held her in a warm loving embrace.

"How would you like it if I showed you how much I reciprocate that feeling?" Her fingers slowly touched around the eyes, nose, cheeks and finally lips, which opened slightly to allow the fingers to be kissed in tenderness.

"I think that's one of the most wonderful invitation's I've ever had in my life." Constance captured the hand that she had previously kissed the tips of the fingers of and this time pulled the woman into her embrace so that they could share a kiss filled with the promise of the love they shared, whatever the circumstances.

~ ~ ~

Jace didn't know why she was surprised when Lukas, who was grinning at her opened the main door. Had she dripped some of that wonderful fish sauce down her chin? No, James would have told her that surely.

"Hi Lukas, how's everyone?" Jace smiled back at him, and quickly went through the doorway into the marbled inner courtyard that she had to admit was her favourite part of the Villa. Not only that she felt that it had saved hers and Grace's life when they had hidden behind that monster of a pot plant. She needed to get one for home if it would grow in their climate.

"Everyone is well Jace." Lukas's voice held was it a snigger?

"Great, where is everyone? It's a beautiful night so clear this evening you can see for miles." Jace waited for the man to close and lock the door behind her, as he did so she listened intently to the silence. It was rarely this, quiet! Maybe everyone was tired having retired for the night it was only eight but the past few days had taken its toil on everyone including herself.

"Well, some are in their rooms sleeping others are in the dinning room, a late dinner shall we say." Lukas was being evasive.

"Okay guess I'll go interrupt dinner, sorry if I disturbed your meal Lukas." Jace apologised, for obviously the man had been eating if they were having a late dinner.

"No, not me Jace no apology necessary. If you don't mind I need to go do some work in the office, I will talk with you tomorrow, good evening." Lukas walked away rapidly before she had time to answer.

Oh well, never mind he had looked pre-occupied she wondered if Althea Spiros wasn't part of his pre-occupation. There she was again match making, just as she had earlier with James and Demitri. Now on that particular match she was sure it was going to happen! Her hand closed around the handle of the door to the dining room and opening it quickly stepped through the door.

"HiÖ." Jace's jaw dropped as she looked a round the dining table she shut her eyes not once but twice as she saw faces she hadn't expected to see for at least another three or four days.

Her heart hammered in her chest as she heard the squeal from Elena and a slightly throaty part boy part man's voice answer, "Hi Jace."

Then she was overwhelmed by a small tornado that hit her as she quickly evaluated that Lisa was now hugging her legs laughing.

My god, her daughter was here safe and well.

"Oh my god Lisa darling I love you." Jace struggled with the words as she picked up the small child into her arms. Holding her close looking over her beloved face, kissing her cheeks and hair reverently, unsure if this was a trick of her imagination was she actually dreaming

Then her eyes scanned the remainder of the people in the room. Her senses knew where her partner was before her eyes saw the woman she loved. Constantia was smiling indulgently, Grace seated next to Faith was laughing at the shocked expression on the blonde's face.

Then there was Catherine!

She had so much to say to her partner, so much to explain and share. The very fact that she was here in this room, with the rest of the family expressed it all no words were necessary.

Ice blue eyes captured her emerald green ones, messages like a binary code began passing between them. The love that was captured in their hearts, eager to be shared once more with their soulmate

"I guess we surprised you Jace?" Catherine spoke quietly but distinctly; her smile spoke volumes, as she stood up from her place at the table to go over to Jace.

"Yes, yes you did. I can't believe this, you are all here!" Jace whispered into the room. Her eyes that had filled with tears at the sight of Lisa, now happily cascading down her face. It was too good to be true.

Catherine with swift steps arrived alongside Jace, placing a tender hand on her cheek the other on the red hair of Lisa's head. Jace was hugging Lisa so tight it was hard to know if she was hurting the child with the embrace.

"I thought you would want to see Lisa sooner rather than later." Catherine replied quietly.

"Oh darling of course I did, I thought you would have gone directly home. Rather than take the long journey here." Jace couldn't help the tender glances she gave Catherine, her heart singing; yes it certainly was the only expression she could think of.

"Jace, don't you know by now that you are my home, everything else is just a place to live." Came back the soft retort.

Jace looked over to Constantia at that comment, amazed to see a smirk of ëI told you so' splattered across the older woman's features.

"I don't know what to say?" Jace admitted ruefully.

"Well, I must say that's a first Jace, but I'll forgive you this once." Catherine smiled warmly gently taking Lisa from her arms.

"I think that you need to go say hello in person to Elena or she will start to scream the place down." Catherine had seen the toddler's expression gradually change from happiness at seeing her mother to annoyance because she wasn't gaining any attention.

"Okay I will." As she did so she kissed, Lisa again, whispering something into the child's ear that had her grinning like a Cheshire cat.

"Catherine I can walk you know." Lisa stated to the tall woman who held her aloft as she watched fascinated, Jace walk over to Elena and pick her up out of her high chair.

"What? Oh sorry, Lisa go ahead." As she placed the child down who went back to her place between Grace and Jake.

Catherine looked around her as she took in the family scene. Here on the Island that had been part of her family heritage for centuries was to her three generations of Xianthos. Her Aunt, herself and her children, if anyone had said that would be possible three years ago or even a year ago, she would have thought the odds rather stacked against them! How lives change unexpectedly, in her case some of the events might have been tragic but the benefits were oh so satisfying.

~ ~ ~

Captain Artillius couldn't believe it!

As he surveyed the hospital room with its overturned furniture the news that the prison patient had escaped.

"What happened?" He asked the officer who had been one of the officers stationed at the hospital.

"I'm not sure exactly Captain, but as far as I could tell Samos was hit over the head by an unknown assailant as he waited outside the door. I was taking a rest room break when I got back he was unconscious on the floor the woman was gone. The Doctor's in pretty bad shape too, she's lucky to be alive, the prisoner almost strangled her!" The officer tried to explain as quickly but concisely as he could.

"Where are Samos and the Doctor?" The Captain's first concern was for his fellow officer and a member of the public.

"Samos is being treated for his head injuries the doctor is under shock and bruised around the neck but waiting for you in her office."

"Do we know how many people helped the woman escape?" Artillius asked as he considered what to do next.

He'd placed a call to the small airstrip to stop any more aircraft's leaving unless his men searched every craft and passenger. As to the ferry, well fortunately that had left before this had happened therefore they couldn't have sought passage on the boat. His heart felt lighter as he considered there wasn't a possibility, especially as James was on the ferry if this mad woman found out he wouldn't have stood a chance.

The only other escape route was by sea it was impossible to stop someone if they had a cruiser waiting, he didn't have the manpower or the facilities to cover every possible launch point from the Island. As it was dark, their only helicopter wouldn't have much chance either, it would have been like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

"Not really, but a couple of the staff I've talked with saw two men walking in this direction just before the situation developed. What do you want me to do Captain?" The officer asked distressed that this had happened on his shift.

Artillius considered the problem for a moment then placed a firm hand on the man's shoulder in support. "Go see how Samos is doing then you need to fill out the paper work, we have officers from Athens due early in the morning they will want the details."

"Yes Captain." The man walked off towards the casualty area.

Demitri Artillius looked around the mess in the room stroking his chin. There was an officer doing guard duty over at the Villa Xianthos, he had been the first person he called when the news had been broken to him. If there was any disturbance at all he was to call it in no matter how minor the skirmish He had delayed informing the residents of Villa Xianthos, after all they had suffered enough if the woman was off the Island they were at least safe.

He walked down the corridor to the Doctor's office and tapped on the door, a voice barely distinguishable bid him enter.

"Doctor Crystal?" he asked tentatively as he saw a shadow seated in the darkness of the room, only a small desk light illuminated a corner of the room.

"Yes." A voice he hardly recognised as the Doctor's croaked out.

"I'm sorry Doctor perhaps you could relate to me what happened?" The captain asked with compassion.

"You were right! How did you know?" The doctor said indistinctly as he recognised the horror and fear in the words from the woman.

"I didn't know Doctor, but I have seen the criminal type before. What she put people through at the scene of the crime the potential for disaster that very nearly became, made me suspect she was still capable of anything. The criminal mind housed in an insane person is something you must never ever dismiss, it is a lesson worth remembering Doctor." The Captain remained standing close to the small light so that he didn't scare her anymore than she already was.

"She nearly killed me! I didn't think she had the strength but she had such a wild evil glint in her eyes it was like watching a horror movie except it was real, I was the victim." The Doctor tried to explain her predicament.

"How about you go home and rest, tomorrow we can go over the details, you are far too upset and would benefit from sleep at the moment." Artillius said quietly for the woman was clearly distressed it would be cruel to put her through the ordeal of remembering the episode again, tomorrow would be early enough.

"Will you catch her?" Doctor Crystal asked quietly, she wanted the reassurance of knowing the woman was under police custody preferably off the island too.

"Eventually I'm sure. Now Doctor have you someone who can go home with you perhaps stay the night?" He asked concerned for her welfare it would be better for her if she wasn't alone this evening you just didn't know what the ëHudson' woman was capable off.

"Yes, yes my husband is due here anytime." Doctor Crystal said softly, it made her feel happier to know that he was home with her.

"Then Doctor I will leave you, tomorrow I will call and take your statement personally. Rest now Doctor until the morning." Artillius turned to leave barely hearing the next words the woman spoke so quietly.

 "I'm sorry for my stupidity Captain, I should have listened to you."

Artillius heard the honesty in the words simply nodded his head as he left the room.

~ ~ ~

"Are we away from the coastline?"

"Yes, they haven't the men or facilities to follow if they even knew what they were looking for." The man answered as he concentrated on keeping the cruiser at maximum throttle and in the right direction.

"Excellent, when will we arrive at our destination?"

"In Four hours we should see the coastline and we have everyone ready for the onward travel arrangements." The man carefully responded.

"What about a doctor?"

"She's been selected, as it will be very early in the morning, chances are she will be too tired to ask too many questions. But if she does we will pay her handsomely for the trouble." The man laughed cynically as he considered the payback.

"Okay, I need to rest, wake me when we reach the coastline."

The man turned to watch the woman slowly walk or practically crawl to the tiny cabin located at the back of the cruiser he heard her groan as she dropped into the hard mattress.

"Sure thing Ms. Hudson."

The cruiser moved on through the waves of the Aegean Sea to the area of coastline that he'd planned for the next stage of the journey.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-two

Colin had looked at the night sky on many occasions, relishing the feeling of wonder it brought over him at the vast expanse filled with stars and the moon. He and Grace had shared many a quiet evening watching the night close in around them. He missed her!

Today he'd received a call from detective Andrews to say that a miniature electronic device had been set up on Ms. O'Neil's vehicle. The device activated remotely, probably within a distance of a couple of miles.

The detective had said that the device had been placed on her car several days before, if she was being followed. Obviously the situation had developed that the people who had been monitoring Ms. O'Neil had felt that it was the right time to activate the device that had killed her instantly. He had been assured that there was nothing he could have done to detect the device or that his security had been weak. The people who were responsible were experts likely the police would be unable to trace them, but they had a team now working towards that. The detective would be in touch if he gathered any more news on the case, and gave his congratulations on the good news of Lisa's safe return.

He had felt a little easier at the situation at least when Catherine came home he knew she would understand that currently there was nothing in the security system that would have found the device. He had already contacted the Security Company they used for the equipment they had been given the instruction to locate equipment that would help with this issue, should it ever arise again.

How far did you go? It was a question he'd asked himself several times recently and didn't really have a definitive answer, guess it was the type of question similar to the remark ëhow long is a piece of string'.

Then his thoughts turned back to Grace she had said that although the family was now safely together at the villa in Greece, she would be coming home, he was her family and she missed him. He had to admit that sometimes he doubted that Grace loved him as much as he did her. But then she would say something to him that made him dismiss the thought entirely making him smile like a lovesick teenager all over again. He had smiled exactly like that when she had spoken to him earlier in the day. Grace was coming home that was all he needed to know, and all he cared about now!

He once more looked up at the night sky considering himself a very lucky man.

~ ~ ~

Constantia looked up from her observation of Sarah sleeping peacefully in her bed, the woman had been upset that she wasn't allowed to have dinner with the rest of the family, but it would have been too much for her today. Tomorrow Sarah could get up for a few hours and see the family, they had finally agreed on that before Sarah would give up her objections to not seeing them immediately.

It was strange that in the twilight of her life family was becoming important again as it had been in the early days, when her father and Elena had been alive.

Was this the full circle feeling in her bones? Rather than her death, which she had been certain was nearby. Now with Sarah dependent on her for a short time at least. Catherine bringing her family here, was this her full circle? Sometimes she had wished for death to take her when the pain became intolerable and of late that had been the case, but she had never known the depth of her love for her friend nor her friend's love for her.

I suppose they had just both accepted it, never doubting that it would be there every morning they woke up to a new day. Constantia had reason now to wonder if that was taking complacency to the limit.

When Sarah had been shot, lying motionless and bleeding at her feet, unable to tend her friend. That had been like taking the bullet herself, she felt that her heart was bleeding inside also. The relief she felt when she had been told Sarah was alive and would also get well, was like watching the sun come up on a gloriously warm beautiful new day! Sometimes you never realised how much you cared about another until it was too late, now both she and Sarah had the opportunity to spend she hoped many more twilight years together as friends.

Then there was Catherine and her family. What a family it was too! So very varied in characters yet wonderfully projective of what she considered a happy family background. The child Lisa didn't look to have suffered too much trauma from the terrible kidnapping, but time would tell on that. Although with the love that obviously surrounded the child it was clear she would have lots of helping hands and care if she did eventually need it.

The boy Jake was so like Catherine in mannerisms that it was difficult not to believe that he was hers by birth. He was clearly very intelligent yet kept himself in the background, unless needed. Or felt he had something to say. That did remind her of Catherine as a teenager except the boy didn't appear to have the hang ups she had portrayed.

Elena her sister would be proud of her namesake, the child was adorable, very much like her mother in facial characteristics. She had a temper that was certainly not Jace or at least the Jace she had seen in the time they had spent together. It was clear that Catherine had her hands full with the child but it was interesting also humorous to see the two of them in a stand off position as they had at the start of the meal. She'd had to stop herself from laughing as it appeared that the child was gaining ground on the stand off until Catherine actually did take charge of the situation then everything settled down.

A deep smile wreathed her features as she recalled the astonishment on Jace's face then the realisation that Catherine had come home to her, not a place but to her! It had been a picture worth a thousand words the quiet peace that settled over Catherine's face and posture when Jace had walked into the room was another sight to behold.

Love was a very potent force for some people they got to feel it for a lifetime, while others only had a fleeting moment. But when you had it in your life however briefly, it was something that you could hold in your heart forever. And no matter what happened in the rest of your life it was a memory that you could hold onto and look  at all your tomorrows.

Tomorrow she would share the love she felt for Adam with her best friend. Yes, she would do that, it was time!

She placed a frail gentle hand on her friend's hand that was outside the bedclothes, before she turned her wheelchair towards the door and left the room.

~ ~ ~

The night was closing in Catherine reclined on the bed in the room that Jace had been given, which was exactly the same as the one she had been given on her previous visit.

Glancing towards the slightly billowing curtains that moved with the breeze from the open balcony window letting in the cooling air. She recalled the only other time she had been here without Jace, it had been a beautiful sight then but now with Jace it would be both beautiful and romantic. Although it was autumn here the day had been hot, hotter than she had at first realised that was good for the kids would relax and have fun.

They had continued dinner in a fashion she had watched Jace all evening taking in any conceivable change in her partner and realised something had changed. A subtle change but she was as certain of it as she was about the changes she'd undergone with the current events in their lives.

Nothing was mentioned of the tragic and horrific situation that had developed here at the Villa until all the children had been settled for the night. Faith had insisted that she bed down in the room with the girls, just for tonight she said to make them feel secure. Catherine was certain that the older woman was grateful to have the chance to have Lisa back in the fold wanting to reassure herself that the child wouldn't disappear again.

Jake had at first been a little awkward about going to bed but had agreed when he was given the chance to go fishing with Lukas early the next morning. Lukas had even persuaded Althea to go with them he felt certain that it would help to get away from the villa for a short time.

Constantia said little during the dinner retiring to bed early saying that she wanted to go sit with Sarah for a while tomorrow they could talk things over.

That had eventually left Catherine, Jace and Grace to sit together in companionable silence, as Jace was held tightly close to her chest. Both were relishing the closeness of the contact, without need for words.

The discussion that ensued had scared Catherine so profoundly she had found it difficult to find any words when the brief synopsis had been related to her.

She could have lost Jace!

Grace and the unborn child too!

Then there was her Aunt as well; all of it could have been lost to her!

One person had been responsible for it all, Hudson!

When she'd heard the story she had released Jace from her hold left the room to make a call to the security people at the gate asking for another officer to be allocated to the villa building. The officer had stated that someone was on the way. If Catherine hadn't been too tired and shocked she would have asked more questions but now she just wanted to get back to Jace.

They had talked a short while longer then Grace had said it was time she was in bed as the baby was kicking hard tonight. She and Jace had decided that bed was a great idea. Jace was now checking on the children and Faith.

Jace had shown tremendous courage and determination to save the lives in the villa by putting herself in danger. From what had been said more importantly what hadn't been said at almost dying at the hands of Hudson. But it had made Catherine realise how much Jace had changed since they had first met, she was no longer the innocent who had captured her heart. She was a very resourceful, strong and resilient woman who would fight to death itself for the people she loved. How could she be remotely angry about that aspect of her partner, when it proved beyond all doubt, not that she had any, of Jace's depth of emotion for them all.

Catherine heard the door, could smell the faint perfume that Jace always wore, as soft footfalls brought her partner closer to the bed.

Ice blue eyes captured emerald green ones passing a message as old as time; it had crossed continents bridged gaps that seemed unimaginable. It was a trust in their love that defied explanation created invisible links that forged a chain impossible to break. It was the classical fairytale ending of a story, when soulmate's are reunited to be one again.

"You came home to me?" Jace whispered a tender smile on her lips as she eventually broke the silence.

"Did you ever doubt it?" Catherine quietly replied her eyes glowing with love for this woman who had brought her immeasurable joy in the short time they had been together.

"No. But when I meant home I meant me as home!" Jace was entranced in the glow that emitted from Catherine it was always the same the feeling of wonder and awe that so many emotions would surface with her presence or the sound of her voice.

"You are my home Jace, you have all my tomorrows remember? Where else would I want to be but share as many as I have left in this world with you." Catherine stated with a conviction behind the words that Jace had never heard before. She really had come into the light from her dark shadows.

"I remember I will love you through them all Catherine that's a promise that will never be broken, ever!" Jace slowly moved onto the bed and was taken in the most wonderfully tender embrace Catherine had ever given her they had finally come home.

Several gentle satisfying kisses later; Jace placed her hands around Catherine's face gazing into the features she loved. Tracing a tender finger over the fading scars, she kissed each one reverently tears that she was unable to control dripped onto the smooth cheeks under her fingertips.

"I never want you to leave me Catherine now I know for certain you never will. You may leave my side for a short time but inside I know that you are with me as I'm with you. You and I will always come together again it's just meant to be!" Jace spoke softly as she smothered Catherine with gentle feather light kisses feeling the emotion building in her partner as her hands and lips felt the tremor beneath them.

Catherine seized an opportunity swiftly turning Jace over so that she now lay beneath her; Catherine was holding Jace's face between hers, her own heart beating rapidly, as she smoothed away the tears from her face tenderly. Moving her fingers over the pale cheeks down her throat to the beautiful skin of her shoulders, her fingers deftly trailed under the open neckline to stroke the collarbone.

"Physically Jace, you and I may be parted from time to time, but I know now that spiritually we can't ever be parted, as you are a part of me. I'm a part of you, my love. Not just for this lifetime but for an eternity of lifetimes, all our tomorrows Jace yours and mine!" Catherine resumed her tender caress of Jace's body as they succumbed to the love they shared not just of the soul but physically too.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-three

"You could have lost the baby Grace! Whatever came over you to think that you could have taken on aÖa criminal?" Faith asked her daughter in despair, after she had listened to the events that had transpired at the villa only days earlier.

"I didn't lose the baby Mother, I've already told Colin I'm coming home. The doctor has indicated that if I take it easy everything will be okay." Grace gave her mother a long-suffering glance, and sat down heavily in the lounger, she wasn't up to an argument.

"Does Colin know that you put the baby in jeopardy?" Faith continued to question her eldest daughter, who she was sure didn't have the sense she was born with at times.

"No! It isn't necessary to worry him. When I get home I'll tell him then, until that time he knows we are both well." Grace stated forcefully, she could do without the inquisition from her mother.

"Are you well Grace? How can you be when you do such foolish things to endanger your unborn child, he wouldn't exactly approve of that now would he?" Faith bit back scathingly.

Grace glowered at her mother, ëthe baby this, the baby that.' "What about me? It doesn't matter that I had to do those things to try and save my life, as well as the lives of others. No, of course not! I'm just the person carrying the baby, what would be the baby's chance had I let him shoot me without at least trying to escape? Answer me that Mother."

The words flooded out of Grace, she couldn't help it, why did her Mother have this effect on her. Faith looked at her daughter sharply at the words as well as the implication behind them. Grace was right, had she not tried to escape perhaps she would be dead now and so might the others.

"I'm sorry Grace, truly sorry. I lost sight of what was important, why you had to do the things you did. I forgot for a moment how resourceful and determined you are, not to mention the courage it must have taken to risk your life with the knowledge that you risked the baby's too." Faith dropped her gaze, as she sat down heavily on the sofa opposite the chair Grace was seated in.

It was several minutes before either woman spoke. The entrance of Lisa with Elena in tow, both dressed in bathing suits, brought them out of their melancholy thoughts.

"Hi Lisa, come on over and give your Aunt Grace the low down on the beach below." Grace smiled warmly at the girl, immediately rewarded with an infectious grin from the red headed child.

"It's smashing Grace, me and Elena have both been in the water, Jace was with us though. I went swimming without the wings; Catherine's Aunt found a small paddleboat for us to play in. Elena can't swim so Jace had to hold her, I wanted Catherine to come too but she was sleeping." The child pointed out, exaggerating the fact that Catherine was asleep and wouldn't join them.

Faith looked at Grace both bursting out laughing. Imaging Catherine trying to sleep on the beach with two energetic children around.

"Darling, I'm sure with all the travelling she just needed a little more sleep. What's the betting that tomorrow, she'll be teaching you how to swim faster." Grace smiled at the girl as she came over, sitting on the arm of the chair as Elena trotted over to clamber on the sofa next to Faith.

"Oh well, I don't think so." Lisa stated confidently.

"You don't why?" Grace asked, interested in the turn of the conversation.

"I did the same travelling Grace, how can she be tired, for I'd be tired too but I'm not!"

Grace gave her chin a stroke, considering her answer on the subject carefully. "Well, how about if she does go swimming with you all, why not let her win. After all Lisa, Catherine is a little older than you are. Anyway we all know she hates to lose at anything."

Lisa mimicked Grace's action of stroking her chin with a twinkle in her blue eyes she giggled replying. "Okay Grace can do, she does get upset doesn't she, look at all the games she loses."

Elena shouted "Lisa" at that moment; she was bored with Faith tickling her, wanting her big sister to play.

"I have to go take Elena to see Catherine's Aunt she wants us to meet another older lady. Jace said it was okay if we were good, because the lady is sick at the moment." Lisa explained, moving over to grasp Elena's hand as they both walked away with a wave and a goodbye.

"Bye ladies." Grace smiled warmly as they left the room; her eyes remained on the door that closed behind them a restful expression came over her face.

"When you go home Grace would you consider company?" Faith had watched the fleeting changes cross her daughter's face, also the tender look she gave the children.

"Company who exactly?" Grace was surprised at the question.

"Well, I figure as Jace and Catherine are together now they can handle the children. Jake takes care of himself mainly, how about me?" Faith replied self-consciously hoping her previous outburst could be forgiven.

"So you can make sure I don't do something else foolish, which would endanger the baby?" She couldn't help the cynical tinge to the words.

Faith looked embarrassed, deciding to look her daughter straight in the eyes, "No, so I can be with my daughter. Keep her company on the long journey home."

Grace's cheeks turned a slight pink at the words; life was far too short to hold grudges. Her mother had only voiced her own thoughts on the matter; maybe that was why it hurt so much.

"Thanks, I'd welcome the company. Two days time be okay with you, give you time to rest before you begin the return journey?"

"Yes that will be fine Grace, I'll stop by to see Jace and Catherine and let them know I'm going with you." Faith moved out of the sofa, as she reached the door she turned back, "thank you Grace." leaving the room.

Grace shook her head as she stood up from her chair; the idea of a spot of sunbathing before she went home sounded good to her. Placing a gentle hand on her swelling abdomen she could feel the baby moving around, it brought a tender smile over her lips. Looks like the baby wants to sunbathe too!

~ ~ ~

Catherine was lying on a sun lounger relaxing with the sun beating down on her body, clad scantily in a black bikini that didn't leave much to the imagination. Short notice, she'd contacted a local store to send up a couple of swimsuits. However, what they considered her size didn't equate to what she would have received at home, no it was something-different altogether. Guess the sizes vary with different makes like all the rest of the world when you went clothes shopping.

Although Jace had whistled appreciatively when she'd tried them both on before eventually selecting the midnight black one keeping the electric blue for another time.

Catherine shifted on the beach bed, watching as Jace sauntered over to her, after taking the two girls back up to the house to see Constantia and Sarah. Her eyes were shielded by the sunglasses she wore, even when sun bathing, which greatly amused Jace as she said she would end up with white circles on her face. Therefore not allowing anyone to see the expression held within them, which she was glad of at the moment, not that there was anyone to see but she was certain that passion was sparking right out of them.

Jace saw Catherine looking at her, couldn't see the expression but she had a good idea how those sexy ice blues would be reacting. Laughing silently as her partner turned away quickly hoping not to be caught watching.

As Jace neared the beach bed, she suspected that Catherine would feign sleep, Jace allowed her to continue the masquerade. "Oh my poor darling, are you still tired? What a pity."

Catherine heard the whispered words as Jace came close to her, as her breath fanned her cheeks. Should she pretend to sleep or wake up to find out what the ëpity' was all about? Well, it wouldn't take Einstein to work out what she preferred to do.

"I'm awake Jace, how can I help you?" Catherine drawled as she opened her eyes to stare straight into her partner's eyes.

Jace smiled, works every time she thought. Then moved swiftly allowing her to lie on top of Catherine on the bed; it was a private beach no one else was anywhere to be seen.

"Oh darling it wasn't help I wanted." Jace replied her voice low; yet to Catherine so very enticing it made her shiver in anticipation.

"Then please tell me what you were thinking?" Catherine gave a resonating growl as her fingers gently stroked Jace's cheek.

"I was thinking that I would like to invite you on a date." Jace said seriously, having to stifle a laugh as she saw the astonishment on Catherine's face.

"A date? Jace a date? Really darling we're married!" Catherine spluttered moving upwards with Jace now sitting on her lap smiling wickedly at her.

"Yes I know we are. Why does that preclude us from having a date?" Jace asked seriously, as she felt the body beneath her tremble slightly.

"It doesn'tÖbut why?" Catherine was surprised as the words sank in. She felt a glow as she considered going on a date, they hadn't exactly had that many in their relationship it had been too intense in other ways.

"Because, I want to take the most beautiful woman I know out on a date. I've never asked you on a date before, it's something I've wanted to do from the first day I met you." Jace smiled as she kissed the full lips gently, which pursed as her partner considered how to answer.

Catherine felt a warmth that started at her toes travelling up to the tips of her ears, as she let the words close in around her, feeling the love Jace had for her.

"Jace thank you, I'd be delighted to go on a date with you, When? Where?" Catherine let her lips linger over her partner's refusing to allow the woman to answer her question immediately.

When Jace was able, she breathlessly answered. "Tonight, around eight I'll pick you up."

Catherine laughed at the final comment as she hugged Jace to her in a loving embrace. "I love you Jace, what would I do without you, Mmmm."

"Ah well, that's where you're lucky my love, because I'm here for the duration you never have to be without me, ever!" Jace sank into the embrace as she traced a finger over the exposed flesh of Catherine's shoulders.

As they both starred with mounting passion into each other's eyes, the blast of a horn coming from a distance could be heard. Reluctantly they both looked towards the sea; a craft was making its way towards them at speed. Three figures could just be seen as the craft edged closer to the shore.

"Jake!" Catherine laughed as she quickly kissed Jace, releasing her for the party due ashore at any time.

"We will take this up later, count on it Catherine." Jace sneaked a quick kiss of her own as she moved off the beach bed walking over to the shore to greet their son and the others.

Catherine watched her move away swiftly; damn woman was a tease. Oh she would certainly welcome the offer later, a date too! Well, things were certainly looking up, one of her better decisions coming here instead of home, most definitely a good call.

Moving gracefully out of the beach bed, she sauntered over to stand alongside her partner at the shore side. Her hand reached down to take one of Jace's smaller ones, knowing that was where it was meant to be.

~ ~ ~

Jason looked out of the large window onto the street below, milling with people going about their everyday business. He wondered if Catherine ever just looked out of the window in contemplation, he sure liked to think so and it wasn't just him.

A knock on the door as Rita put her head around. Her face wreathed in smiles as she saw him at the window, must be something all these chair people do, went with the position she supposed.

"Mr. Bardley? Captain Travis of the NYPD would like a quick word with you, if you can spare the time?"

"Why yes of course show him in." Jason wondered what the officer wanted; it was probably just to let them know the outcome of the short hearing on the Rosnova woman.

"He's refused to leave his gun with Security, I'm afraid they won't let him into the main building." Rita apologetically explained.

"I'm sure Security will let the Captain keep his gun, after all he's an officer of the law, surely they are above suspicion?" Jason replied, then saw the look of surprise pass over the young woman's face at his words.

Jason held up his hand continuing. "Sorry Rita, if the Captain will not release his weapon, tell the Security people I will be down to see him in the lobby."

"I'll tell them. I'll also have the Security Chief come up and meet you; perhaps you can go over all the security measures in force as Ms. Devonshire did from time to time. You know to keep up-to-date." Rita smiled at him pleased that he'd changed his mind without embarrassing him about security protocol.

"I think that's a great idea Rita, yes as soon as I get back arrange that please. By the way has Constance finished her meetings?" Jason gave her a wink of the eye in acceptance of her help on perhaps a rather sensitive issue.

"No, still going strong. It sounds like old times, from where I'm sitting." Rita knew she shouldn't gossip, but this wasn't really gossiping she hadn't been listening at the keyhole had she.

"Old times?" Jason asked with interest.

"Oh yes I've heard raised voices, mainly Constance. That indicates she's back into the swing of things again." Rita smiled as she left Jason to digest that statement.

He chuckled at the thought of the woman shouting down the senior executives, wondering what she was like in full flow. If it wasn't for the police Captain in the lobby he might have been tempted to go and see the action for himself.

He left the office to go into the elevator to the ground floor.

Captain Travis was annoyed at the delay, particularly so that the security here wanted his weapon, not a chance in hell. He was responsible for the weapon; he would make sure he knew exactly where it was. The only way he knew of doing that was keeping it with him at all times.

Pacing about the lobby, he heard someone approaching; he turned to see a smart grey haired man that he vaguely recalled hold a hand out to him in greeting.

"Captain Travis, I believe you wanted to speak with me I'm Jason Bardley." Jason smiled at the man, also saw him quickly assess the situation.

"Of course, I'm sorry to have to bother you at work but I felt that it was important to let you know the outcome of the hearing this morning." Travis shook the man's hand, waiting for a reply.

"Yes, I would be interested to learn the outcome, I can relay that to my daughter and her partner. Let me see if there is anywhere we can talk. If not how would a coffee across the road sound to you?" Jason looked around for one of the security people.

"Sounds good to me, go ahead." Travis relaxed a little after this initial encounter with this very affable man.

"Be right back." Jason sauntered off towards the security desk, quickly finding out the answer to his question.

"There is a room that is used for cold callers to our procurement people, I've arranged for us to go there. Would you like a coffee or another type of beverage?" Jason smiled as he indicated the direction of the room as they walked towards it.

"Coffee, black is fine with me, thanks." Travis smiled at the man gratefully. He'd come here immediately after the hearing to deliver the news to the family himself.

He'd been instructed that anything that needed to be related to the Warriorson family would go through Jason Bardley the new Chairman of Xianthos. His instructions had been explicit under no circumstances could he contact the Warriorson's directly.

Jason ordered the drinks as he passed the receptionist. They then went inside the glass-panelled office, which overlooked the main lobby of the building from three sides. The remaining was covered in rich wood panelling that held two pictures One was a print of the current executive team the other an original oil painting of the founder of the company Stewart Devonshire.

As they sat down Travis asked who was the guy in the portrait.

"The founder of the company, Devonshire, the current owner's Father. He built the original company from scratch back in the fifties. A very astute businessman by all accounts, had a nose for finding talent in the most obscure places. I'm told he was the epitome of the English gentleman always had the prerequisite umbrella in hand." Jason had found out quite a lot about Devonshire in his time at Xianthos. He suspected that he might know more about Catherine's Father than she did.

"Yeah, the English and their preoccupation with the weather, particularly rain, that's always the portrayal in the movies anyway." Travis replied as a young woman knocked on the door, shyly bringing in the tray laden with the coffee requested and quickly exited.

 "So, Captain you have news for me?" Jason picked up a cup of poured coffee passing it over to the Captain before filling his own.

"I thought being the Chairman of such a large operation you would have someone to do that for you?" Travis said with a twinkle in his eye.

Jason laughed as he picked up his own coffee, pouring cream generously onto the surface of the dark liquid.

"I guess I could have but I prefer to think that the staff have better and more profitable things to do than pour coffee for me."

"Yeah I guess. You know of course that Doctor Thea Rosnova was brought before a hearing this morning on charges of kidnapping?" Travis asked slowly, they were still working on her to confess to other kidnappings, possibly the murder of one child, or at least an involvement in the murder.

"Yes I did." Jason answered quietly, as he sipped from the steaming coffee waiting for more from the police officer.

"The judge has remanded her in prison to await trial for the said abduction, in the interim we are working towards a solution to the other kidnappings."

"I see. What if you can't find any connection? It appears she was a very clever woman in her ability to hide from the police for so long." Jason replied, starring at the man directly in front of him.

"We will see, perhaps with Serena Dusterly's help maybe we can make some real headway. Nail Rosnova for more than your granddaughter's abduction. We might get her to give up her accomplices as well at some point. We need them off the street, while they are still around the children in this city or any other are still at risk." Travis admitted with a look of disappointment on his features. He had personally held some of the interrogation sessions with Rosnova, she was giving nothing away, and the only time she spoke was with her lawyer.

"I will of course give the news to Lisa's parents, thank you for taking the time to let me know. May I ask another question?" Jason broached tentatively.

"Yes, go ahead." Travis waited for the question as he drained the remains of his coffee.

"Will Lisa or her parents have to attend the trial?" Jason had wanted to ask Catherine what she thought, but the woman had been focused on leaving the city with Lisa as soon as she could.

"The child's testimony if we need it can be via a video link, she doesn't even have to be in the country. Unfortunately Ms. Devonshire will have to be at the trial, she is a key witness in the retrieval of the child. As are the other's who joined in her quest to retrieve the child" Travis explained a note of apology in his voice for having to bring back horrific memories in the future.

 "I'll relate that to the family too, if you don't mind that is?" Jason said quietly, he wasn't sure how bringing back the terrible episode with Lisa would affect her.

"Not at all, Ms. Devonshire may be allowed to provide her evidence in another form butÖ." Travis trailed off unconvinced of that fact himself. It would end up a media circus, Rosnova's lawyers were already talking about their client not being treated properly, and they were angling for the case to be thrown out of court. That was why he was pinning hopes that they could crack the evil bitch before the trial, making sure she got her just desserts.

"Yes, I know more than likely she will need to be here in person. She will do so if it puts the woman away for a long time. There is no doubt that she will go to prison for a long time is there Captain? I know that sometimes deals are struck that reduce the sentence, surely you have sufficient evidence to ensure she receives a very long term." Jason had the feeling that the officer was leaving something out and it wasn't good news.

"Leave that with us Mr Bardley, we'll make sure Rosnova goes to prison. To be honest I wouldn't want to be in the Governors shoes if she doesn't." Travis smiled, as he thought of the current State Governor going head to head with Catherine Devonshire should this case fail.

Jason laughed at the comment nodding his head; yeah he sure wouldn't either. They finished their drinks; Travis said he would keep in touch about any changes in the situation.

Jason shook the man's hand leaving him to go and talk with the Security Chief. Travis pulled up the collar of his rain coat as he left the impressive building to ward of the rain, as he went towards the car park, he could do with one of those English guy's umbrella's about now.

Jason walked towards the elevator and felt a shiver run down his back as he felt the unease return considering the Captains words again about the trial.

~ ~ ~

Sarah laughed at a comical reply from Lisa as she sat on the bed trying not to fidget. That was proving impossible as she got nearer and nearer to the injured woman in the bed.

"Why did you laugh Sarah, it's true you know." Lisa was puzzled at the laughter from the woman in the bed.

Constantia was sitting watching the exchange between her friend and the daughter of her niece; the toddler Elena was asleep on her lap. The child had barely said hello when she had held her hands out to Constantia. With Lisa's help the child crawled onto her lap falling instantly asleep. It brought a tender smile to her lips as she gazed down onto the dark head of the baby. The child reminded her of Catherine as a baby, but this wasn't Catherine's child. Therefore it must just be the colouring the child had; then again there was that scowl from the previous evening that matched a certain niece of hers.

"It's hard to picture Catherine making noises to match a fairy story that's all Lisa, sorry I laughed. I'm sure she makes wonderful noises to bring the story alive." Sarah was suitable apologetic.

Lisa went closer until she was sitting only inches away from Sarah. It brought a gasp of censure from Constantia, as she considered that the child might accidentally hurt Sarah.

Lisa smiled at the old lady in the chair as she spoke. "It's okay ConstantaaÖ ConstantiÖ it's okay, because I never hurt Catherine when she was sick after her accident."

Constantia gave the child a surprised glance that brought an even bigger grin from the child. "You look like Catherine, except you're older. Her hair hasn't gone grey all over yet, but she's working on it! Did you know that she gets into more scrapes than I do, and I'm allowed."

Now both women dissolved into laughter, and didn't hear the door open in the room as Catherine and Jace entered the room.

"Is this a private joke or do we get to hear it too?" Catherine drawled as she neared the bed, looking at Lisa. Who gave an innocent ëdon't know what you're talking about' look, then to Elena asleep on her Aunt's knee.

"Is she too heavy Aunt, I'll take her if youÖ" Catherine stopped at the raised eyebrows she received from her Aunt.

"No Catherine, the baby is fine where she is right now. Have you had a relaxing morning?" Constantia asked, smiling at Jace who came over to kiss her on the cheek. Quickly checking Elena to make sure she was still sleeping peacefully, her daughter could sleep anywhere, pretty much like she could herself.

"How are you Sarah, Lisa isn't bothering you is she?" Catherine asked, as she sat down on the easy chair beside the bed. Jace had moved around the bed to sit on its edge, as she gently pulled Lisa towards her. Settled her in her arms stroking the red head of hair as she smiled at the family get together.

"No Catherine, actually she's a breath of fresh air with her little anecdotes. Quite entertaining, wouldn't you say Consty?" Sarah replied with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes.

"Anecdotes? Entertaining?" Catherine choked out glancing towards Jace, who gave her a grin as she turned to quizzically gaze at Lisa.

"I never said anything bad, honest!" The child smiled winningly up at Jace.

"Want to give me an example?" Catherine asked, her face stoic but inside she was laughing, yes her little princess was home.

"Lisa mentioned you have an affinity to grey and that you enjoy a little adventure in your life." Sarah said tactfully, amused as the ice blue eyes of her best friend's niece took on a thoughtful look at the words.

"Is that so, no doubt the grey was a reference to my hair." Catherine ran her fingers down the temples as she felt the coarser hair she knew was as grey as Constantia's.

Lisa looked away at the comment, but Jace chuckled at the slightly offended look on her partner's face.

"Darling don't worry, we still love you even with a sprinkling of grey, it makes you look very distinguished."

Catherine's cheeks had a pink hue to them as she saw the smouldering look in Jace's eyes, which diffused the situation with her loving words. "Humph I think we will lose the distinguished part, thanks Jace."

"What adventures do I partake in Lisa?" Catherine wanted to laugh at the child's slight hesitation, and then she winked at her. Lisa dissolved into laughter as she saw the amusement and challenge in the words.

"You married Jace!" Lisa giggled, amazed at the speed that Catherine moved from her position to pick her up and hold her aloft laughing as she did so. Then began to tickle the child until she gasped for breath and conceded defeat.

Constantia looked at the happiness that was around her. She thanked God that she had been given the chance to experience this love all around her. It might be late in her life but it was here at last, and she was going to treasure every moment, every single moment.

The door to the room opened as Jake walked in grinning at the sight of Catherine tickling Lisa. This was like old times he made his way inside the room to be immediately screamed at by Elena, who had woken at the sound of the laughter, then saw her big brother.

"Jake, Jake me too." Elena shouted, bouncing on Constantia's lap as the woman was momentarily taken by surprise by the boisterous toddler.

Jake laughed at Elena as he shyly looked at Constantia for permission to take his sister. He smiled wider as he saw familiar ice blue eyes gaze at him warmly as she handed over the child.

"Okay you two, here we come." Jake playfully shouted as he headed towards Catherine who had Lisa pinned down gently on the floor.

Sarah and Constantia both had the same question as they asked in unison, "are they always like this?"

Jace smiled at them, looked tenderly at her family having a playful time and thanked whatever god was listening for bringing then all together safe and sound. Turning back to the two older women she grinned. "You've seen nothing yet!"
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-four

Lukas watched Althea stare expressionlessly over the bay from the balcony area that they used often as the breakfast room in summer. She had looked a little happier on the boat when they had gone fishing with the boy Jake. She really was quite adept with a fishing rod, had managed to bring onboard several medium sized fish suitable to take home for dinner. That was more than he could say he himself had done, the boy had finally after two hours caught his first, which then put him to shame, not that he minded at all. For Althea had actually smiled openly for the first time since the tragic events at the villa a few days before.

"Lukas I've made a decision." Althea said quietly as she continued to stare at the picturesque bay scene.

Lukas smiled as he went to stand at her side to see what she was gazing so intently at. "You have? Well, I'm pleased."

Althea heard his words; also the inflection of hesitation as if he didn't really want to know, should it be something he disagreed on. Lukas had been her rock when she had been cast upon the seas of life, which threatened to overwhelm her. She was so very thankful for his solid shoulder to cry on, taking advantage of its solid familiarity several times in the period since her family's death.

"I'm going home!" Althea stated, as she turned so that she could face him to clearly see his expression. She wasn't disappointed in her original thinking, if the quickly masked expression was anything to go by.

"Home, as in your family home?" Lukas asked cautiously, she wouldn't be happy there but at least she was on the island and he could see her.

"No, not the family home Lukas. Home where I belong is in Athens. I have a career and business interests that still need my attention. It's where I've lived and made my home for several years now, it will be for the best." Althea smiled weakly at him as she momentarily saw a flash of pain cross his face.

Lukas thought about the situation for some time before replying, Althea thought he was just going to remain silent.

"Yes, yes your career, I'd forgotten for the moment you live in Athens." He finally responded absently.

Althea heard the pain in the few words he spoke. She'd known him for years, mainly as children. He had always been the serious one, never getting into the pranks like the other boys, certainly he was no womaniser, although he had the opportunity, he was certainly good looking. He'd been the studious type, and when his parents had sent him away to a European University, many considered that he wouldn't ever come back to Greece. She had been more likely to end up in trouble than he would have. Although she had always liked him, the times they had spent together had always made her want to seek his company.

"I'm like you Lukas we have commitments that help us get on with our lives. I have nothing left here to make me want to return, it's for the best." Althea hadn't realised what she'd implied, until it was too late. The words having left her mouth, unable to take them back she decided to wait for the reaction.

Lukas felt the sting of the words; he didn't know how to answer. He felt she was tearing his heart to shreds with her indifference to people that still cared for her on the island. Dampening down the need to attack and inflict pain of his own, he merely placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "I want you to be happy Althea, if Athens can help you achieve that, I'm happy too."

Althea looked up into his eyes and saw the sincerity there. She felt as if she was drowning as she continued to stare into his eyes unable to break the contact. Her mind was pleased that he had accepted her decision without a fight, however, her heart felt strangely sad that he had acquiescent so easily.

"Do you think Constantia will mind if I stay until after the funeral, the Police Captain has released the bodies of George and my Mother? Once the funeral is over I will return to Athens." Althea sadly asked.

Lukas smiled warmly at her, placing his arm further about her shoulders as he drew her towards him, giving her comfort from his words if that were possible.  "Constantia will be happy to have you stay. Will you allow me to accompany you to the funeral AltheaÖ? I know of course it's family but I was hopingÖ" he didn't finish as he heard a faint but clearly audible voice say yes.

They looked out over the bay silently, both of them filled with questions but unable to voice them.

~ ~ ~

Jace had taken the children down to the private beach and left Catherine to talk with Constantia. Sarah was sleeping, they had decided to retire to the coolness of the indoor courtyard.

"They are beautiful children Catherine, a credit to you both. Thank you for bringing them here to see me." Constantia picked up her tea sipping the hot beverage Grace had kindly made for them.

"Well, except for Elena, we can't exactly take any credit. For both Jake and Lisa came to us a little later in life. They are grand kids though we love them as if they were ours." Catherine smiled as she too sipped from her tea.

Constantia tipped her head watching the profile so very familiar to her. Everyone said Catherine looked like her but she did look like her mother too, it brought a lump in her throat as she thought about her late sister. "You appear to be instilling ALL of the children with values and they are happy with you both, I would say as  much if not more so than if they were your own."

"I'm working on the theory that you learn from experience and the values your parents teach you. I know it doesn't always work that way, but it's what I'd like to think anyway." Catherine tried to explain to her Aunt with a shrug of her shoulders.

 "Then I'm sure you both will instil some wonderful values into your children. I don't know much about these things Catherine but have you considered having any children of your own?" The older woman looked embarrassed at the question she asked.

"Aunt really, I'm married!" Catherine said with mock censure. Inside she was chuckling, this was the second time she had to inform someone she was married, and it really was quite amusing or so she thought anyway.

"I know that, but Jace had a child, couldn't you?" Constantia asked not wanting to drop the subject; anyway Catherine wasn't annoyed you could see the laughter in the twinkle of her eyes. That did remind her of her sister; Elena had a sense of humour that could be quite annoying at times. She would trade ten years of her life to have her sister play one of her pranks or give out one of her anecdotes just one more time.

"Jace was married at the time." Catherine said shortly, her mind jumped to the non-return, of the adoption authorisation papers momentarily.

"I had the impression that you and Jace have been together far longer than Elena has been born, I'm sorry if I've stepped out of line." Constantia apologised as she saw the hurt expression on her niece's face.

"We have! At leastÖ we got back together six months into Jace's pregnancy. Her marriage was a mistake. We've asked the Father to agree my adoption of Elena." Catherine was unable to keep a happy expression on her face as she thought of Peter Adamson.

"I take it the Father might be difficult?" The older woman said with compassion.

"Yes, something like that!" Catherine replied as she poured herself another cup of tea, at home she had her enormous mug here she was given a dainty cup!

"Catherine, they say that everything comes to those that wait and my dear I'm sure in this case it will be true." Constantia felt the sadness of the situation permeate from the younger woman, feeling for her in a very profound way.

"I won't give up any of the children Aunt, they are mine! I couldn't love them anymore than I do, my own child would only be a bonus. I've thought of having a child but I'm high risk, Jace is younger so if we have a child it would be better if she became pregnant rather than me." Catherine said quietly.

"Would you like more children, you are very good with them?"

Catherine laughed softly as she considered that question it was so easy to answer.

"Oh yes, Jace wants a football team I'm sure of it!" Constantia laughed at the comment that alleviated the tension some of the conversation had caused.

"I suppose whatever Jace wants you would like to provide?"

Catherine smiled at her Aunt, as she nodded her head at the comment.

"Your Mother and Father would be very proud of you Catherine." Constantia said seriously then saw the shock mirror in her niece's eyes.

Catherine was stunned at the words, had the woman lost her mind? No way would her Father be proud of her, he never had been, she still hadn't totally atoned. Her Mother on the other hand might.

"I don't think so Constantia, certainly not my Father anyway."

"What do you really know about your Father Catherine?" the older woman asked sympathetically.

"Enough!" Catherine stated belligerently.

"Perhaps one day you might take the time to find out exactly who your Father was, then perhaps you wouldn't be so judgmental. Your Mother wasn't the paragon of virtue you make her either, she had her faults." Constantia stated calmly.

"And you would know?" Catherine remarked scathingly without thinking.

"Yes I would know." Constantia smiled at the challenge for if there was anyone in the world who knew her sister she certainly did.

Conceding that her Aunt might just know she looked at her with a chagrined expression. "Guess one day I'd better ask you about them."

"I guess you had better." Constantia smiled, as she looked at the stoic face that suddenly brightened at her words.

"What about you?" Catherine asked suddenly.

"I could say, what about me Catherine? I know you are an intelligent woman, therefore exactly what do you want to know?" Constantia traded eye contact with her niece.

"Have you ever been in love?" Catherine had often wondered as a teenager about her Aunt, had even speculated at times, although that speculation hadn't always been nice.

"Yes, once a long time ago before you were born." Constantia said dully.

"I guess it didn't work out."

"It didn't work out that's true, time has a way of walking by and leaving you alone. I found that to my regret." Constantia smiled wryly surprisingly rewarded with an acknowledging smile from her niece.

"I know that feeling well, perhaps one day we might share our experiences." Catherine remarked genuinely.

"I hope so also Catherine. Now tell me do you really make all the voices associated with a particular story you narrate to the children?" Constantia smiled warmly at her as she looked up in surprise at the question.

"Oh, so now I know what Lisa was talking about earlier!" Catherine grinned at her Aunt.

"She's something else that elder daughter of yours Catherine, very entertaining." Constantia laughed at the image of the child.

"Yes she is, that's the reason I couldn't let her out into the world so early." Catherine said. Constantia heard the tremor in the attempt at joviality at the child's abduction.

"So very true my dear, they grow up so fast anyway."

"Yes they do, I'm glad that she's going to grow up with us!" Catherine said with emotion, as both women picked up their tea in contemplative silence.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-five

Captain Artillius stroked the twenty-four hour beard on his chin, wishing it could be the day before. At least then he could have the pleasant company of James Thompson before him, rather than this dour unpleasant detective from Piraeus, asking stupid questions.

Okay, so the woman called ëHudson' had escaped, everyone was aware of that, well almost everyone!

Okay, they hadn't had any luck trying to recapture her with the limited police resources, how the hell could they! It was clearly well organised for there wasn't a trace of her or the accomplices anywhere.

Now twenty hours later, it was looking like she had left the small island. Otherwise someone somewhere would have found her or at least noticed something odd going on. Not to mention the woman still needed drugs, lots of them according to Doctor Crystal.

Doctor Crystal had still been a little dazed this morning when he'd arrived to take her statement, although she was outwardly calm, accepting that it wasn't her fault in any way.

"What do we really know of this woman Captain?" Detective Arianna Secaris asked the man sharply.

"Not a great deal at the moment. Interpol has sent us some brief information they have on her, it contains some interesting information in the last couple of entries." Artillius glanced down at the report he'd received an hour earlier.

"Explain the last couple of entries?" Secaris looked out at the cobbled street where the station was situated, deserted except for the odd person walking down the darkening street towards the nightclub at the end of the street.

Artillius shook his head slightly; surely the woman would want to see the report herself? The police from the mainland had no respect for the officers on the islands. Artillius wondered if they knew that all the officers stationed on the islands had their basic training on the mainland.

"She was made bankrupt by a law suit in America after she had made slanderous accusations against a large corporation, they won! She left the country; several months later she was reported killed in a boating accident in Hawaii. Obviously that isn't the case as she's turned up here."

"How do you know this person you call Hudson is really that woman?" Secaris asked, as she turned abruptly to face him, suddenly the case became more appealing, maybe even promotion material.

"We finger printed her of course! Not to mention she was identified by a visitor to the island." Artillius barked out annoyed that someone of lower rank would consider him inept at his job.

"She is who you have been told she is." Secaris said again thoughtfully, her mind drifted to several scenarios.

"You say that someone on the island knows her well, who?"

"Jace Warriorson, she's staying at the villa Xianspiros." Artillius said quietly.

"Well, lets get her over here and find out more shall we?" Secaris muttered, why hadn't he thought of that. These Island cops had it too easy they should try it in the big cities.

"It's close on seven thirty, surely we can do that tomorrow?" Artillius didn't want to disturb Jace Warriorson at this time in the evening.

"I'm sure she won't mind, after all she will want the woman back in our custody surely. Make the call!" Secaris answered sarcastically.

Artillius almost blasted her with a rejoinder of his own, deciding against it at the last minute! He hoped Jace Warriorson had gone out for the evening, as he dialled the number to the Xianspiros villa.

Several minutes later he replaced the receiver back in its cradle, glancing up into the interested features of the woman who had made the request for the phone call.

"She'll be here in the next half hour." he said in a muted tone, the woman had obviously made plans but she had agreed when he had finally told her Hudson had escaped the hospital.

"Good." Secaris went back to looking out of the window, ignoring the heavy sigh that the officer in the room expelled.

~ ~ ~

Jace silently walked into the guestroom she shared with Catherine. Immediately entranced as she opened the door to see one beautiful tapering leg being encased in black silk stockings, now that was one sexy sight.

Catherine looked up with a grin, " Hi I know I'm not ready, aren't you early?" she laughingly chastised Jace.

Jace smiled warmly but she couldn't keep her eyes from the long legs, one covered with the black shimmering silk the other ready to be clothed as such.

"That's okay, I am early." Jace said quietly, Catherine raised her head a little away from her task as she heard the words, noting the sadness behind the words.

"What's wrong my love?"

Jace went over to sit on the edge of the bed with a slightly crooked smile. Catherine always knew when things were not going to plan it was one of the wonderful things she loved about her.

"I just received a call from Captain Artillius, he says he needs me to go over some details about Hudson with him."

Catherine knew that wasn't all, as she dropped the stocking onto the chair next to the bed and sat down next to Jace, tracing a gentle finger over her cheek. "It couldn't wait until the morning?"

Jace felt herself move into the caress she was receiving with the pleasure of a feline, she almost purred. "Darling, Hudson has escaped." Half expecting to feel Catherine withdraw instantly, she was amazed to find that instead her partner increased the area of the caress.

"Catherine did you hear what I said?" Jace was surprised at the lack of interest in the subject it wasn't like Catherine at all.

"Absolutely Jace." Catherine responded hoarsely as she kissed eyelids, nose and finally lips that initially struggled as they attempted to ask her what was going on. Finally to drown into submission in the sexual haze that followed.

Eventually, they both came up for air. Both women gazed into each other's eyes they had shifted their position to lay on the bed. Jace held securely on top of Catherine who was running her hands up and down her back over the thin fabric of the silk blouse she wore.

"You knew about Hudson didn't you Catherine?" Jace accused her quietly but with no heat behind the words.

"Let's just say I'm a paranoid security freak, this morning I talked with the police who are on security at the moment. He admitted that Hudson was loose but seriously injured. I checked with the hospital, they have serious doubts about her surviving any major journey." Catherine kissed the astonished expression away.

"You didn't tell me?"

"No! I was going to let you and the others who had gone through the ordeal have some peace if only for twenty-four hours. I'm sorry Jace." Catherine said sincerely her word's apologetic too.

Jace looked into a face she had memorised. Could draw every single feature and line of the face if she was asked, or if indeed she could draw. It had numerous facets, some she knew she had yet to experience, others that she knew she never would! This wasn't a cover up by Catherine it was a genuine need she possessed to spare people she loved further pains and anguishes.

"I love you Catherine!" Jace whispered emotionally placing a searing kiss on her partner's willing lips.

"When did you say you would be at the station?" Catherine asked as she expelled a ragged breath. Jace's finger stroked her thigh encased in silk; her fingers lingered at the clasp that held the garment in place.

"I said about half an hour." Jace rasped out, her fingers were moving sensuously over the leg that was covered in silk. Catherine enclosed in black silk always turned her on, and as Catherine was also only wearing her underwear it was difficult to think with any clarity.

Catherine placed small kisses over her neck and shoulders finally trailing to the valley between her breasts in the open necked blouse Jace wore. "How about we both go."

Jace was finding conversation difficult but huskily replied. "I knew I could rely on you to have any type of date with me darling, I love you."

Catherine smiled into the kiss they shared and gasping for air muttered. "Any date with you my love, any date at all. I think the police might just be waiting a little longer than half an hour."

Jace wasn't able to answer as they lost themselves in the passion that overtook them; unclasping the silk stocking she began a trail of seduction that Catherine was more than willing to accede too.

~ ~ ~

Jake was sitting in a chair that overlooked the sea, it was a great view and he'd really enjoyed the day, it was a great place. The villa as they called the house was great. He knew that it was old, how old he wasn't sure exactly, Lukas had told him that Catherine's ancestors had lived there for generations. That was a cool thing to know all your ancestors, he didn't have a clue about his and wasn't sure if he wanted to know either. He didn't think much about his parents now, he had at the beginning but now they were like a background memory. Unable to recall that much about them, only that the people, who had come for him the day his parents had been killed, had said it was a car accident.

He loved Catherine and Jace, although he knew that there were problems with the fact that they were married. He also knew that they were happier than any one he had ever met, except maybe Colin and Grace. He loved Colin as a Dad, more so than his own father, that upset him too sometimes, for he shouldn't really think that way should he? Colin was always there for him if he needed it. He would attend the football matches and also discuss the future with him. He knew he could do that with Catherine and Jace but he felt that Colin understood his situation better that was all.

When he'd told Ian his best friend about travelling to Greece, his friend had been envious but slapped him on the back, telling him to enjoy himself. Catherine had linked up her laptop today in a room, her Aunt who was the spitting image of her or was that the other way around? Anyway if it didn't matter they were family, she had said no problem to use the line whenever he wanted. He'd chatted with Ian for an hour before dinner recounting his day to his friend. Ian had explained the content of the subjects he was missing at school, nothing that he wasn't capable of catching up on.

He was off in a dream world when he felt a small hand tap him on the shoulder, which brought him out of his daydreaming to look up into a smiling face, with blue eyes and a red mop of hair.

"Lisa?"

"Yeah that's me Jake, can I sit with you for a few minutes? Grace said once she's finished her phone call to Colin she will read us a story." Lisa asked, normally she would have just pounced on her brother but this time she held back.

Jake smiled at her unexpectedly pulling her onto his lap as they both starred out at the beautiful scene.

"The stars twinkle different here Jake." Lisa said as she snuggled into her brother's shoulder.

He smiled as she said that, feeling so grateful that she was here with them. He couldn't help but hug her tight for a few seconds. "Yeah, I guess they do."

Lisa turned misty eyes to his hazel ones; he could see a shimmering of tears in them " What's the matter Lisa?" as he held her close.

She turned her face into his football shirt sobbing quietly. "I was scared Jake, no one came for me and I was scared."

Jake heard the terror in her voice uncharacteristically kissing the top of her head. It was out of character but he knew she needed to know that he cared and he did care!

"Hey, that's okay I would have been scared too."

Lisa turned tear-stained eyes to his, gazing up into his eyes to see if he was joking or not. No, he wasn't! She loved Jake, he was a boy and did boy things but that was okay. "You would?"

Jake smiled as he thought that Lisa had more chance of staying sane in that situation then he would have. "Yeah I would have."

"No one came for me Jake, they said they would and they didn't." Lisa said her tears making the words virtually inaudible.

"Lisa, Catherine came for you, she found you." Jake explained to his sister.

"That bad lady was going to hurt me Jake and they didn't come!" she sobbed into his shoulder.

"That bad lady made it difficult for Catherine to find you Lisa but she did, she did!" Jake emphasised.

"I was frightened Jake!" Lisa pleaded for him to understand as the tears dripped down her cheeks.

Jake turned her face towards him smiling softly at her with deep concern filling his eyes. "Lisa, Catherine and Jace want to know if you're ever scared. They asked you earlier if you wanted to go with them this evening and if you needed to talk about anything, anything at all Jace said. Why don't you tell them you're scared?"

Lisa raised anxious eyes to his as he saw the pain reflected back at him, "can't do that Jake, I'd be a gooseberry. They don't see much of each other alone do they?"

"You could still tell them you're scared and why?" The boy pointed out patiently.

"Catherine will think I'm a weakling, then she really won't want to adopt me!" The child stated sure in her misguided knowledge.

Jake shook his head, no way would Catherine think like that! If it were not for the fact that Lisa was distraught he would have admonished her for the remark. "No, Lisa I don't think she would do that, why would she?"

Grace entered the room and saw the two children together, about to go over when her mother stopped her. "No Grace, let's leave it for a little while okay?"

She looked puzzled but agreed, taking a seat until her two children decided they wanted their bedtime story.

"She didn't adopt us Jake maybe she doesn't want us?" Lisa finally voiced her biggest fear.

Jake looked out at the peaceful scene pulled her further into his shoulder, she really was a small person reminding him of a twig that you could snap easily.

"I know she loves us Lisa, there must be some reason she doesn't adopt us. What do you say we ask her?" Jake said simply.

Lisa hiccuped blinking back a tear, as she finally gave Jake a watery smile. "Yes we will ask her, but will you do it Jake?"

Jake laughed quietly as he hugged her again. "How about we both ask her? Come on Lisa, Grace is sitting in the room and she looks real relaxed. How about we go ask her for one of Catherine's special stories just for fun?"

Lisa giggled, "Yes she doesn't know any of Catherine's stories does she?" Standing up with the girl in his arms he put her down holding out his hand for her to take. "True she doesn't."

They both sauntered hand in hand towards the unsuspecting Grace.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-six

"Will she be able to travel?" the man asked in Turkish as the Doctor they had selected, administered another shot to the unconscious woman.

"She's in pain and should be in a hospital, why is she travelling?" the Doctor asked, she had agreed to this extra money, it was a vast amount because her father was ill and they needed the money for proper treatment or he would die.

"Never mind why! Can she?" the man was concerned about the woman's welfare; she'd made it a stipulation that unless she arrived at their final destination alive he wouldn't get the money she had offered. Rashly he had agreed, if she was alive for only a few minutes once they arrived at their destination that was all he needed. He didn't care if she died immediately afterwards, that was her choice not his, he was only after the money.

"Yes, barely." The doctor checked her over once more and then handed a package of drugs over to the man.

"Make sure she takes them as I've instructed on each container," the Doctor stated.

"No fear Doc she will get them exactly how you say!"

"Good, you may take her now there isn't anything more I can do."

"You think she's going to die?" the man asked conversationally, he wanted to know what the chances were of getting his money. If it were a lost cause he'd throw her overboard now.

"She's not well." The doctor said noncommittally.

"That a yes or no?" the man asked aggressively.

Before the Doctor could answer another voice entered the conversation.

"I'm gonna live asshole, let's get moving." Hudson managed to croak out shutting her eyes as abruptly as she'd opened them.

"Guess I have my answer." He picked up the woman, and then surprisingly gently loaded her into the vehicle. Leaving the Doctor standing at the door, puzzled but alive!

~ ~ ~

"Detective you have quizzed Jace about the events and why she thought the person was Hudson for the last hour, who is the criminal here?" Catherine couldn't help it she had had enough of this cat and mouse inquisition.

Secaris was annoyed at the question. ëWho the hell was this woman?'

"I need to clarify that we are all on the same wave length."

Jace was looking open mouthed at Catherine's defence of her it wasÖsimply wonderful.

Artillius had to put up a hand to his mouth to stop the detective from seeing the smile that last comment from Jace's wife made.

"I know my wave length detective. If you require more information, why not check it against someone else who knew Hudson even better." Catherine challenged the woman.

"That would mean someone in America, we haven't the time." Secaris said defensively.

"You haven't done a file check from the States? Or who could perhaps furnish you with the information closer to hand." Catherine said sarcastically. She didn't like the attitude of this detective, it was time to cut loose she had a date she wanted to continue. This was only a short interlude in her mind.

"Yes, yes of course we have! Do you think we are incompetent to your American standards?" Secaris blustered.

Catherine laughed turning to smile at Jace. "Tell you what next time they send you on a case detective Secaris, make sure you know the people your talking to and the background."

"Come on Jace we have wasted enough time here, Captain it wasÖwell it was." Catherine shook the Captain's hand then held out her hand for Jace to take.

Secaris spluttered, "You can't go!"

"Try and stop us!" Catherine returned clearly as they left the building.

Secaris was seething no one could do that!

Artillius smiled as he passed over the file that Interpol had sent. "Perhaps you should have read this first."

Secaris looked at the document, seeing a familiar name there. Realising that she had made one of the biggest mistakes of her career to-date. Catherine Warriorson-Devonshire-Xianthos.

"Oh shit!" The woman shouted, as Artillius considered he needed a couple of hour's sleep. Then maybe when he woke he would call the number on the card that he had been given by a very handsome man, which seemed like days ago but wasn't.

~ ~ ~

Constance smiled at the pre-occupied expression of the new figurehead of Xianthos; it had even gone well with the city analyst's, which was an unexpected bonus. Even if it hadn't, she doubted that Catherine would give a damn, overpaid hangers on she called the business analyst's in the city. Although she had one of the brightest teams at her disposal when she required it, the owner was no fool.

"Jason, want any help with a decision?" Constance asked quietly as she neared the man who was looking out over the bustling crowds below. It was now six in the evening most were commuters headed home.

Jason continued to look out at the view and then looked Constance directly in the eye smiling at her gratefully. "I have been given a proposition, it looks good to me but a little diverse from our usual business'. Want to give me your opinion before I take it to the executive committee?"

Jason walked over to the large desk picking up a black plastic folder, handing it over to Constance.

Glancing at the name of the proposal she raised her eyebrows in surprise, yeah it was diverse. Taking a seat on the sofa she placed it on the coffee table to begin reading the contents.

Jason called Rita to bring in some coffee, dismissing her for the evening. Several minutes later Jason was pouring the beverages as Constance continued to read the document.

About fifteen minutes later, having drained the coffeepot Rita had brought in, Constance finally closed the project folder and sat back in a contemplative mood.

"That bad huh?" Jason asked as he placed his cup down on the table, now sat opposite her having brought a visitor's chair to face her over the coffee table.

Constance smiled, laughing softly at his crestfallen expression.

"Jason it's not bad! Actually it's a wonderful proposal but not something we usually delve into. Do you think Catherine would approve?"

"She said as long as she makes a profit she doesn't mind what I term a good investment. I don't even have to get her vote on the issue, if you and I agree, the executive committee will most likely go along with it, assuming it's viable of course." Jason pronounced as his expression cleared, becoming animated when she had said the project was wonderful.

"Oh I'd say on those figures that it's viable, in fact it's a gift, but where's the catch?" Constance hadn't been in business for the last ten years not to ask that basic question.

Shamefaced Jason hung his head a little then quietly explained. "I have a close buddy from my early days, he needs cash quickly but doesn't want the investors to become big players in the decision making. Says' he has a possible addition to his stable that could be a big star in the future. He and I still talk once a month, obviously he's aware of my changed circumstances and gave me the first option."

"Ah the buddy network! I've come across that beforeÖadmittedly in other circumstances, certainly not as beneficial in monetary terms as this one appears to be. We need to quantify the numbers, want me to get a small team onto it straight away?" Constance smiled as she saw his eyes warm, twinkling with anticipation.

"Thanks Constance that would be wonderful." Jason stood up flexing his muscles, in a stretch that amused the woman who stood up at the same time.

"Well, I don't know about you Jason but I've a dinner date tonight that I want to keep. What about yourself?" Constance had promised Clare that she would be home before eight no later, they had planned to go along to the local Chinese restaurant, rather than cook. Things were certainly easier now that she had decided to accept her lover's help when she felt that things were getting difficult to handle. Somehow just knowing that Clare was there was enough; she didn't feel like things were becoming uncontrollable in her life.

"Alison my wife has had to go home to LA. Our youngest appears to have a problem and you know what kids are like they want their mother when the going gets tough." Jason smiled but it didn't reach his eyes, something was up at home with Lucy but until Alison called him later he was still in the dark.

"She's in college right?" Constance had neared the door but had heard the slight change in tone in the man's voice.

"Yes, she's a bright kid. I know parents say that about their kids, but she is. Even wants to emulate Catherine, although she wouldn't admit it to anyone." Jason said, recalling the animosity between Lucy and his daughter in law.

"Probably a love affair gone wrong then." Constance tried to reassure him as she opened the door. "Goodnight Jason see you in the morning."

"Goodnight Constance, I'll call my friend Jack this evening and ask him to co-operate with our team." Jason saw her nod as she left him alone in the room.

Turning back to his desk he picked up several items from the polished surface, opening the drawer to lock them away before he left for the evening. As he did so something got stuck, which stopped him from opening the drawer fully. Several attempts and tugs later he had the drawer free, looking for what had caused the obstruction. A key that he hadn't noticed before was the offending article he looked it over. It was rather ornate and aged. Probably a key for a door lock that had since been replaced, the building was old. Then he saw a scrap of paper that was a label; he starred at it several times trying to make out the faded ink. Finally he thought he had deciphered it twirling it around in his hands. Alison wasn't due to call for another three hours and Jack would be home whatever time he called.

Locking away the items he had originally taken from his desk he held onto the old key. Switching off the light he went in search of the President's office, one Stewart Devonshire.

~ ~ ~

Jace smiled lovingly, watching Catherine eating with a voracious appetite the Greek Chicken with lemons. Although it was evening the dish itself was so ësunny' in appearance, it made you feel that you were actually in the presence of the sunshine itself.

"I see you have a good appetite tonight Catherine." Jace noted as she drank a glass of local brewed white wine. It was a little tart but that was just fine as her meal complemented it surprisingly enough.

Catherine laughed, almost choking on her meal as she considered the reason for her need for sustenance.

"Well, it's usual practice to have the work out after the date. However, in your case my love you have a wonderful way of creating an appetite for dinner." Catherine saw Jace look at her in surprise.

"I didn't hear any complaints." Jace smirked as she considered the hour before they had left for the police station, exceptionally exciting and stimulating, also unexpected, and rather decadent.

"Oh, no complaints from me lover. Anytime you want to go out on a date, please feel free to ask me, I will be willing, more than willing."

Jace chuckled as she sipped the final dregs of her wine, as Catherine polished off more of her meal. "More than willing. Well, I love the sound of that and I have lots of idea's for us to go out on dates when we get home."

"You have? Well, maybe we should go home with Grace then?" Catherine smiled warmly, capturing the green eyes in a loving hold from her ice blue ones.

"Madam, would you care for more wine?" The waiter had appeared out of nowhere, asking the question picking up the empty wine bottle. Catherine had taken a solitary glass but Jace had polished off the rest, even though she had said she wasn't sure about the taste of it.

That made Catherine grin widely as she answered the waiter. "Sure, go ahead."

Jace looked at Catherine giggling. "Are you trying to get me drunk on our date?"

"Who me? No! AlthoughÖ kind of an interesting thought Jace." Catherine's eyes twinkled with laughter. Jace had never been drunk ever in her presence, now that couldn't be said of herself of course.

As the waiter placed another bottle on the table, pouring them both a glass. He left them with a smile; winking at Jace, who had to stop the laughter from being heard by the man, so put a hand over her mouth.

Catherine had seen the waiter wink at her partner, it brought a smile to her face, and normally she would be mad. Not now! Now she knew that Jace was hers body and soul, nothing was going to change that, just as she was Jace's.

"Guess you love to attract the locals Jace." Jace smiled finishing off her last morsel of dinner before answering.

"Not a match on the person I'm dating I can tell you."

Catherine chuckled as she replied. "Lucky date."

"Yep, thought so myself, and she's not bad looking too!" Jace replied and giggled as the wine began to kick in. Amusing Catherine to no end, one day Jace was going to join her and Grace for a real nice drink.

Her partner always seemed so serious for one so young she rarely if ever drank at home not that she was advocating drinking at all! Always putting the welfare of the children first.  She never let herself go even when they had a house full of willing helpers. Okay, so they had a baby to think about, admittedly Elena was a handful that was the truth, but she sometimes felt that Jace had grown up far to quickly. They needed to relax together, fill in the gaps of their relationship and there were lots of gaps. She'd asked this once before, suddenly when she thought they were going to work on that a crisis occurred. They had learned a lot about each other on the month long honeymoon, even promised each other that they would continue to learn more and more, but situations and events always seemed to interrupt.

"Not bad looking. Well, thank you darling. I must say from where I'm sitting my date isn't ëbad looking' either."

Jace turned emerald green eyes onto Catherine's grinning face, seductively taking her hand whispering loudly, "How does bed sound as the next part of our date?"

Catherine had to laugh she couldn't help it; the occupants of the two tables close to them obviously heard her proposition.

"I thought you respected me?" Catherine asked in a mock strait laced tone.

"I do!" Jace announced loudly, not realising that Catherine was teasing her.

"You do huh? Well in that case my love lets go." Catherine smiled, her gaze filled with passion mixed with humour.

"What about the wine?" Jace asked as she placed a hand on the bottle to emphasise her question.

Catherine indicated for the waiter to bring the check. Then placed her own hand over Jace's on the bottle.

"Trust me darling when I say you are intoxication enough for me. Although if you want wineÖwell that can be arranged."

Jace turned eyes as big as saucers to her partner. "It can?"

"Absolutely my love, have no doubts." Catherine responded, as she pulled out a wad of notes to pay the check, leaving a generous tip. After all the man was out of luck, she was going home with the most beautiful and sexy woman in the place, the island too in her opinion.

"I have never had doubts with you?" Jace retorted, as she stumbled walking out of the building. The fresh air caused her to stagger a little, until a strong arm went around her waist to hold her securely to a warm body she knew so well.

"Pleased to hear that Jace, so very pleased, and darling.' Catherine bent her head to snatch a quick kiss as Jace turned to her quizzically.

ëI have no doubts about you either."

Jace was acutely aware of the excitement building in her body as she pulled down Catherine's head as they kissed with mounting passion.

"We are in public darling." Catherine dragged her trembling body from Jace, stoking her cheek to soothe away the sting of having to relinquish her wife.

"We are married Catherine." Jace logically pointed out. As she tried to pull her head closer for another long and satisfying kiss. Catherine hesitated for a second, and then allowed herself to drown in the ecstasy of the woman in her arms. Hell, they were in a quite street anyway and who would give a damn!

"Yes we are! Time to go home love and carry this on in comfort." Catherine finally replied as she maintained the contact this time and made her own sensual assault on her partner. What a wonderful date this was turning into.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-seven

Jason Bardley opened the large polished oak door with the ornate key, it went into the lock without protest, that surprised him, you'd have expected the lock to resist after a period of years. Just another interesting facet to the legend behind Xianthos, maybe Devonshire still walked the halls and he used his office every day.

The thought made him chuckle as he heard the lock snick back as he tentatively opened the door. He felt like he was violating someone's privacy, but hell the guy had been dead for ten years. If he wasn't mistaken the tenth anniversary of his death was next month; maybe they should celebrate it in some fashion. He'd have to think about it before he broached the rest of the executive committee. It was a rather sensitive subject with the present owner.

He pushed the door open prior to going inside he could smell the stale air that hadn't been recycled and theÖ now what was that familiar if pungent smell? Yeah, it was old books, really old books that had the yellow fading pages; musty could best describe it.

As he walked inside flicking the light switch to illuminate the dark room, he now knew why. The room was lined on one side with numerous volumes of books. Ranging from business volumes of the day to old editions of classical literature. A large section on biographies of great characters in history, Genghis Khan, Peter I ëThe Great', Marco Polo, Napoleon, Wellington, Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Gandhi and the list went on and on. The guy had been a real history buff according to the volumes he could see, they were well used too not show pieces. He selected one of the volumes reverently touching the pages of the leather-tooled volume; it was the biography of Catherine II of Russia. As he glanced with appreciation over the words on the pages, he wondered if Devonshire had named his only daughter after this Empress of Russia?

It was a readers paradise, or at least to him anyway! Maybe that was the reason why the man had started a publishing business because he had a genuine love of the written word. He had read lots about the man in the past few months, and yet nothing told him why he became a publisher. There just wasn't anyone who knew the man around to ask, assuming they would tell him anything in the first place.

As he looked over the room he saw a large oak desk its surface now covered with dust. It was the size that made you give it a second look it was twice the size of any desk he'd ever seen before. He could imagine how nervous it made people who came into the room and saw the man behind it.

Devonshire himself had been a tall guy; he was around six feet five according to the bibliography. He'd had grey-piercing eyes that much you could see from the portrait that had been painted of him. There was a brass reading lamp on the desk, a gold letter opener with the initials SD on the hilt also what appeared to be a black fountain pen with a gold cap situated next to a black leather writing case. The dust was evident everywhere as Jason neared the desk; he looked at the rich red wine, leather chair that had also been well used in the past. If he sat in the depths he would feel totally dwarfed in it.

There was a glass cabinet that housed what he thought was a bar. Several bottles of different alcohol were displayed with glasses accordingly, for the different types of drink. Looked like the guy enjoyed the odd tipple, wonder which was his favourite? Now he was pretty certain that he could find that out here, there must be someone who had been here for more than ten years.

He then saw a filing cabinet, he made his way over to it touching the layer of dust as he pulled at the drawer, and not surprisingly it was locked. He walked back to the desk tried and tried the drawers to no avail everything was locked. Damn!

Jason was a little disappointed that he wasn't able to get into any of the drawers of the desk, which he was certain, would probably have the keys to the filing cabinet.

He went over to the door that led to perhaps the private bathroom opening the door, this time the smell wasn't so pungent just stale. The room was very spacious and held within its confines a small kitchen area, and then another door led to a bathroom. He definitely had all the conveniences if he wanted to keep late hours, or never step out of the office during the day.

As he turned in the kitchen he saw another smaller door and opened it to reveal a cloakroom, amazingly there were three garments hanging on the brass pegs. A midnight blue raincoat, a black wool overcoat and a jacket of what appeared to be part of a pinstriped suit.  Strange, he could understand the raincoat and overcoat but part of suit. Surely the guy would have taken that home? Then there were several umbrellas neatly folded in the stand, all in sober colours probably for different styles of dress.

Picking up the jacket he couldn't help the Cheshire grin that crossed his face as he heard the chink of keys, at least he hoped they were keys as he delved into the pockets and fished out a small bunch from one of them. This was surely his lucky day!

Jason swiftly went back to the main office selecting one of the small brass keys, after trying one of the three that were on the key chain he finally heard the lock release on the main drawer of the desk, grinning broadly as it did so.

He gingerly opened it for no other purpose than it was like being a child again; stumbling across a place your parents never let you see. To his mind it was quite exciting, maybe he shouldn't be doing this at all? No! Catherine, he was certain wouldn't mind or would she? Hopefully she would laugh at his fascination with the subject of her father.

He peered into the drawer and saw a large desk diary, also several other papers appertaining to his workload at the time. No other keys were evident that looked like a match for the filing cabinet. Pulling out the royal blue diary he opened it as he noticed it was a three-year monster that had been used everyday. As he flicked the pages at the beginning, he came across entries dealing with business events, although nothing personal, not even a birthday. Then he found a page that drew him, for the letters were so bold and in red, quite startling in contrast to the black ink used for the majority of entries.

ëI have a grandson!'

Jason wondered if the man had felt as proud that day when he'd found out, as he himself was when he learnt of Elena, he hoped so he really did.

Flicking over several pages he saw numerous business entries but he wanted to know if there were anymore personal ones that gave insight into the man himself.

ëCatherine named him after Lukas!'

There were a few entries that he could associate with, a couple were in blue that were cryptic, otherwise rather lacking in warmth. Then again what could you expect it wasn't a personal diary was it?

He went to the final entry it started in black and ended in blue.

ëC is in town, I think I might ask her this weekend!'

Jason pursed his lips at that final statement, who was C? And what was the question? Going by the date, he'd died less than forty-eight hours later from a heart attack.

Jason looked at the papers, they were only about business propositions and as his eyes scanned them, he arched an eyebrow in surprise ëI bet Dan never knew that his company was a prime candidate for take-over way back then?'

Replacing the diary and the papers back in the drawer, he tried one of the other keys in the side drawer; on the second attempt he opened it. There was nothing there but office equipment, very expensive equipment but nothing personal that would explain the man himself. Except that he had the best of everything it would seem.

As he opened the drawer on the other side, there was no doubt about the key, as it was the final one. This wasn't normal having three keys for a desk but it looked custom made so he supposed that would work. The final drawer was opened, this time he wasn't disappointed as he saw a couple of keys that definitely looked like filing cabinet ones, they were the same the world over.

Picking them up he touched a wallet, about the size of a photograph wondering if he should look. Oh what the hell, he had already gone down the invasion of privacy part, he might as well go the whole hog!

Placing the cabinet keys on the dusty desk he picked up the wallet it was in the softest leather, probably goat leather or something of that type. Certainly expensive, whatever was inside had been very important to Devonshire; the edges of the wallet were worn, obviously well used.

He had to sit as he saw what was inside; he gently opened each page of what was a personal photo wallet. It started with very old photos of children and then two couples on their wedding day. Maybe one of Devonshire himself at his wedding, his wife was a very beautiful woman although there was something ethereal about her. That then brought a couple of pictures of people he assumed were friends, it was like watching Stewart Devonshire's life unfold before his eyes. There were baby pictures of each of his children, Catherine had been a rather plain child, and the son on the other hand had been cute. Several pictures brought the children toÖ he would say around teenage years, the girl had become a very beautiful young woman, the son had a happy countenance or he appeared so in the pictures.

Then he saw one of Catherine at a wedding, hers, the groom beside her was a lot older without a doubt. Then pictures of a baby well several pictures of a baby, the same one, very important to the man who had kept his life in pictures, however few.

As he closed up the wallet he pondered what he saw in this room, for this room was life to Devonshire. Some of the most important things in his life were here in this office, important memories!

He picked up the keys to the filing cabinet noticing sub-consciously the trail it left on the desk in the dust.

Inserting a key he opened the cabinet easily.

It was a three-drawer unit; he went through the first drawer, which held only business files. The second held the same, and the third he considered a waste of time but he'd looked at the others so he might well finish the job.

The drawer was virtually empty containing very few files. He was about to shut it when his peripheral vision saw a metal box at the end of the suspension files. Bending down he retrieved the box shutting the cabinet.

It was a mini strong box, he wondered if he had the key on the key chain, he hadn't used them all yet, hardly any really.

He sat back in the leather chair trying one or two before he found the one that opened the box; the guy was practical anyway. As he opened it, he considered that perhaps it should be Catherine's prerogativeÖ.

~ ~ ~

"Mom" A small voice could be heard in Jace's subconscious as she woke from the tone alone.

"Yeah, yeah darling what's the problem?" Jace was disorientated as she looked into small tearful blue eyes of her eldest daughter.

"I'm scared Mom!" Lisa said glancing towards the still form of Catherine in the bed with Jace.

Jace's heart broke at the words, of course she was scared, of course she was! "Lisa come here, lets get you settled next to me."

Lisa happily let Jace pull her forward under the single sheet she felt the warmth of her Mom, the security it gave and the love she knew was there for her. "Will you keep the monsters away Mom?"

Jace felt her daughter tremble as she was hugged closer. Somehow she knew that the darkness hadn't been far away, but she had to wait for Lisa to tell her and then they could work on it. "Yeah, sure I will darling."

Lisa felt a little calmer as she snuggled closer to Jace, then a stronger arm snaked across Jace and herself. A sleep clouded voice confidently, filled with love added. "I'll keep the monsters from you both."

Lisa sighed as shortly her erratic breathing levelled, Jace knew Lisa was asleep as she turned fractionally placing a brief but warm kiss on Catherine's lips. "Thank you from both of us."

A sleep filled voice answered. "You're welcome." As they all fell into a peaceful sleep, knowing the monsters had at least some opposition.

~ ~ ~

Alison Bardley sat patiently waiting for her youngest child to settle down and explain the outburst that she was quitting school.

It had been a shock; of the two of her children Lucy was the more volatile and amazingly also the one more likely to be talked around when she had exhausted all the emotion of the problem. You just had to wait for her to calm down first; fortunately she had patience in abundance and could wait.

Lucy was pacing the living room; she wanted out of college, it wasn't for her. She'd tried over the last couple of years, now the final year was proving too much to handle, she wasn't going back it was as simple as that!

"Lucy would you like something to drink while you think?" Alison had to smile wryly at her comment, which was worthy of her husband rather than herself. Thinking about Jason alone in New York her heart went out to him, although she knew that he could and would cope very well. They had been together long enough now that it was a better situation when they were together than apart.

Lucy stopped her frantic pacing as she turned to her mother, seeing the gentle warmth and understanding in her Mother's green eyes. Her mother never judged she was just always there if the going got tough or you needed a shoulder to cry on. It was inconceivable that her mother wouldn't always be there for her! When her parents had announced that they would be leaving LA for New York, it was unthinkable! "Thanks Mom, I'll have water."

Alison stood up walking over to her daughter, placing a tender hand on her shoulder in compassion. "Good choice. I'll have the same, be right back."

Alison left her child to pace something that was a trait of Jason's. He always did that when he was worried or deep in thought. Fortunately, Jace had more of her characteristics than her Father's traits. The thought of her elder daughter, the situations that had befallen her and her family in the last three years, made you wonder in awe at the strength of the love that bonded the rather unique family together. Some relationships had to weather the eternal storm, and therefore needed an extra special element to keep it all together; she felt that Jace and Catherine had the special ingredients in their relationship.

Looking around the compact but homely kitchen as she poured water from the bottle in the refrigerator, she knew that they could afford to live in a more opulent house, even have domestic help if she wished. Especially with Jason's new permanent position and the staggering salary involved. What he was getting a month was more than a year's salary in his old position. Catherine had even insisted that they take over the apartment she owned in New York. The housekeeper Stephanie already ran the household with precision, she didn't need to do anything but shop!

Nope, this was home they had bought it when they first married. The struggle of the mortgage payments in those years as the girls were growing and the business was small, eating away at any excess cash, just made it all the more home to her. They had so many memories here maybe she would stay home a little, until Lucy was settled again. The house could do with a revamp anyway, they had always wanted to add a new wing to the house, and perhaps this was the time to do so. She'd talk with Jason later, on that subject, he wouldn't be happy but he would understand that she knew with confidence.

"Here you go Lucy." Alison handed her daughter the cold drink and sat back down in her favourite armchair, sinking into its depths with pleasure.

"Mom, I'm not going back!" Lucy stated sinking down on the sofa opposite her Mother as they both drank from their glasses of water.

"Yes, you told me. Now can we go over why?" Alison asked quietly, holding her daughter's gaze, she saw the doubt and the trouble clearly in her eyes.

"I hate it!" Lucy announced with venom.

"Really? When did you begin to hate it?" Alison refused to release the eyes that held a challenge buried beneath them.

"I've always hated it, I just never told you before."

"Maybe you should have spoken out on this before, we could have stopped you getting so upset with the situation. I didn't think we were parents that you had difficulty talking to?" Alison asked her quietly.

Lucy shook her head, "Mom it wasn't like that! I knew that you had all those problems with Jace, what with the travelling and now Dad's new job! I didn't think you had the time."

Alison heard the plaintive words, considered for a few moments the statement. True, Jace had caused them to worry; perhaps they had been preoccupied with her troubles. True also, that Jason's new post had been upper most in their minds once Lisa had been returned safe and well. Had they neglected their youngest child?

"Did you think we weren't there for you darling?" Alison asked gently as she placed her glass on the coffee table, pulling herself out of her armchair to move around to sit beside Lucy on the sofa.

Her child turned anguished tear filled eyes to her Mother's gentle compassionate ones, nodding her head, relieved when her mother pulled her gently into her arms. "How about you have a good cry baby, we can try and solve the problem, what do you say?"

Lucy muttered her agreement as the tears flowed as she was rocked against her mother. Her Mom was the rock she turned to in the storm, it made things look brighter all of a sudden, a chink of sunlight had broken through the dark clouds with this simple old fashion love she needed right now.

Alison smoothed her hand over Lucy's hair in a soothing fashion, as she whispered words of love to her baby. For the child in her arms was always going to be her baby no matter how old she was. This was what family was all about, the loving bond they all shared no matter the circumstances.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-eight

Constantia found her godson looking somewhat lost in the courtyard, he was starring at the palm tree with a degree of concentration, that although the tree was indeed a beautiful specimen didn't exactly warrant that kind of inspection.

"Good morning Lukas." Constantia said quietly, as she watched the young man turn in surprise at being disturbed. His countenance changed to pleasure as he walked swiftly over to place a kiss on her cheek.

"Good morning Constantia, it's a beautiful morning, should be a good day for the children to see the island." He had volunteered to take the three children and their parents around the island, it would take them all day but he felt that keeping occupied was a good thing.

"Yes it is very beautiful, a wonderful day to see our island. Will Althea be going with you too?" No better time than to ask the boy about the woman, she sure occupied his thoughts.

Lukas looked towards the fountain depicting Aphrodite; a small smile crossed his face. "No, she needs to make arrangements for tomorrow. I said I would help but she wanted to be the one to make the final preparations, she said it was the right thing to do."

"Then I will ensure that she is aware she isn't alone today, should the task be difficult for her emotionally. It helps to know someone is there even if they do not take up the offer, just knowing is comfort enough." Constantia wheeled her chair over to the fountain smiled up at the beauty of the statue. When she had it commissioned from old documents; people had been staggered at the cost.

Now looking it over she felt that the cost had been justified, it brought her great joy and now she felt that others found that too, in their own way.

"She was very beautiful." Lukas had been appalled that his godmother had wanted to spend so much money on a fountain, but she had dismissed his prudent comments and gone ahead anyway. Now the fountain was to him the very heart of the villa, it seemed to bestow a peace when chaos beckoned. At least that was how he viewed it anyway.

"Yes, as we all are when we are in love or happy." Constantia remarked quietly.

"How about breakfast with me before my family descends upon us, as you will have your hands full?"

"I'd like that." He smiled warmly at the woman and went over to wheel the chair towards the main house on the way to the breakfast balcony.

~ ~ ~

"She's here alive, so where's my money?" the man asked aggressively.

"Is she dead?" The second man asked, as he peered at the deathly white features of the woman who had been placed on the makeshift bed.

"No! Check her pulse she's alive and that was the deal." The first man said irritated at the delay, the fucking woman might die at any moment and he had kept up his part of the bargain.

The second man checked her pulse, appearing satisfied that the woman was still living, if only barely.

"Okay, you get your money." The second man announced placing a manila envelope in his hands.

The first man glanced up into the Slavic features, considered opening the envelope but had second thoughts, as a third man entered the room who had a machine gun, he didn't look very happy at all.

"I'll leave you with her then. Although I was kind of surprised she chose to come here of all places." The first man said as he made his way to the door and hopefully out of the building safely.

"That was her choice. You don't want to count the money?" The second man asked, as his heavy eyebrows lifted fractionally.

"No! I trust you, honour among thieves and all that." The first man said, wishing he hadn't as he left the room quickly.

The third man turned to the second. "You want me to go after him?"

The second man glanced down at the woman on the bed and smiled. "No, he may be of use to us another time, as he said honour among thieves."

"She doesn't look good." The third man said as he too glanced at the pathetic looking woman on the bed.

"I know that! Bring the doctor we will see if she will live the day through." He spoke in their natural tongue, as he swept a heavy coarse blanket over the woman.

"Okay." The third man disappeared out of the door.

The second man sat at the side of the bed stroking the beard on his chin; here was the ideal partner. Someone who needed a sanctuary but who had funds to invest didn't even mind what the funds were used for. A good partnership if she lived, a not so good one if she died, but still profitable.

"We will see how tough you American women are." The man spoke into the silent room.

He was surprised when a small frail voice said clearly. "You will or my name isn't Clarissa Hudson."

The man moved forward, thinking he imagined the voice as the woman was still unconscious or appeared that way to him. Shaking his head he resumed his musing over the woman as he waited for the Doctor to get here.

~ ~ ~

Catherine had extracted herself out of the hold that Lisa had on her arm, the kid was frail looking but she had some grip. Jace was snuggled into the bed holding their eldest daughter in a tender protective hold.

She'd gone to check that Faith wasn't having a fit with Lisa missing from the room, but the woman was fast asleep, so was their youngest Elena. Mind you Elena was like her mother she could sleep at the drop of a hat at anytime, and no matter how many hours sleep she indulged in during the day, she would sleep until at least seven in the morning.

Going along the corridor she tentatively opened Jake's allocated room, saw the boy sprawled out on the bed, the sheet wrapped around him like a cocoon. She silently went inside looked down at him sleeping peacefully; saw that he was changing and spots were appearing on his face. Yes the good old signs of puberty, maybe his voice would break soon too. My god, Jake would take some ragging from Lisa then! Smiling she turned and left the room it had been tempting to unravel him from the restriction of the sheet but that might have disturbed him and she didn't want that.

Looking over the small balcony window on the landing she saw that it was a beautiful start to the morning, making a decision that a walk along the beach might be a good morning constitution for her before breakfast.

Silently going back to her room she selected some sweat pants and a black T-shirt, along with some training shoes, placing a tender kiss on Jace's forehead as she left the room.

Now an hour later she was gazing towards the horizon, it was a tranquil site the deep blue of the Aegean, and the odd small fishing vessel travelling out beyond her line of vision. She felt at peace here somehow, it was like coming home. Although her heart would always be home if Jace was with her. This was a different sense of home, maybe it was her ancestors calling, as fanciful as that might sound.

Picking up a pebble she skimmed it on the sea and did that several times, it brought a chuckle as she consider her current lifestyle once again. Over the past three years she'd gone the whole gamut she was pretty sure, even making the same mistakes more than once. Now though she felt that all the pieces of her puzzle had finally been found and were swiftly being put into place. It reminded her of a song but the words escaped her for the moment.

Her one hope now was that they could live quietly as a family and do things families did together, normal things! Concentrating her gaze on the sea once again she considered her own words, yeah-normal things! When could their life be normal, unless they dropped out of sight altogether and she didn't want to do that! No, the kids had to be brought up as normal as possible and have values that reflected as ordinary a lifestyle as possible, to know of situations that life brought. Not be sheltered for the rest of their lives on some deserted island. That brought a wry smile to her face, ëThe Swiss Family Warriorson' whatever next.

Hudson was still at large! That was the only thing that could possibly still cause hurt or retribution in their lives now, but deep down she felt that Hudson's days were numbered. Maybe the woman was dead! The hospital had been adamant that she wasn't fit to travel without proper medical care. That woman had more than nine lives for sure!

Catherine felt a sense of failure at not having neutralised Hudson in the past, perhaps there was something she still needed to do that fate was allowing her the opportunity. Kind of odd to think that way, but she still felt that there was some unfinished business, and it didn't have anything to do with Jace, it was between her and Hudson.

"Penny for them?" A voice that sent tingles down her spine spoke softly behind her.

Catherine remained seated on the sand and didn't turn at the sound of her partner's voice she just grinned as she felt the familiar feeling of warmth flood her body, whenever this woman was close by.

"Ah Jace, we are in Greece surely it has got to be drachma?" Catherine pointed out with a humorous lilt in her voice.

Jace sat down next to her partner, engulfed by a warm tender arm that enclosed her in a loving embrace. Jace's head sank tenderly onto the taller woman's shoulder relaxing easily into the hold. "Oh you're just picky. Good morning darling."

Catherine whispered a good morning return as they shared a leisurely morning kiss. "You were deep in thought as I came over. Anything for me to know about?"

"No, nothing that should worry you and that's the truth Jace." She stated in earnest, knowing that in the past Jace hadn't always believed that, but there again she had, had just cause not to trust that statement from her. "I was thinking about Hudson."

Jace sighed at last! Catherine had finally broken down that barrier. Smiling she placed one of her partner's hands to her lips and kissed the palm gently. "I guess there is always going to be a ëHudson' someplace isn't there darling? But we will survive all the threats together as a family, it's the way of things for us love."

She hadn't expected that Jace would be that calm about the whole situation, not with the events that had plagued them. As Jace had pointed out still probably would in the future in some description or another.

"I guess there always will, together we will see them all vanquished my love." Her lips skimmed the top of the blonde head, as they both looked out over the sea, relaxed and peaceful.

"Have I told you this morning that I love you?" Jace whispered as she felt the arm flex and pull her closer if that were possible.

"You don't need to tell me I know." Lips brushed her exposed neck and Jace felt her body reacting to the caress.

"Of course you do but I thought it was nice to speak the words too, just so you know for sure." Jace giggled as she felt a nip on her neck that tickled the sensitive skin.

"In that case Jace, I love you until the end of time." Catherine's words echoed deep within her. Wondering how she had been so fortunate to be given the second chance to love this complex but wonderful woman.

"Mmm I kind of like that love, until the end of time, goes with all your tomorrows very well, don't you think?" Jace replied huskily, she was drowning in sensations that the touch and sheer magic of the words that Catherine was creating within her.

"I think Jace that its all our tomorrows don't you?"

"Count on it darling." Jace muttered her body wanting the onslaught to continue, however her mind told her that the children were waiting to have breakfast before they set off on the tour around the island with Lukas.

"With every breath I take my love." Catherine whispered her own body craving a more intimate location to continue this explosion of senses she was experiencing with Jace in her arms.

"We need to go have breakfast with the kids." Jace finally gulped a deep breath to still her emotions and break the sensual haze for a moment.

"Yes I know that too. I was thinking about a song as I sat here earlier and it's finally come to me, the lyrics that is." Catherine pulled away from the delicate inviting neck as she spoke.

"Want to share that with me?" Jace softly asked as she smiled, knowing the effort that had gone into her partner's withdrawal from her sensual caress of her neck.

"You want me to sing to you?" Catherine asked, she didn't normally sing to Jace, occasionally to Elena but she was only a baby.

"Oh darling, you have a marvellous voice and I'd love you to sing to me. I think that would be a rather wonderful way to start the day, please." The ëplease' was Catherine's undoing.

"Okay, but don't blame me if I murder the song." Jace chuckled and playfully slapped her arm.

Catherine hummed the tune for a few moments as she picked up the tempo and began her rendition.

I lay in your arms with the peace your touch creates,
Tranquillity that descends, as you breathe easily beside me.
Can I ever doubt the effect that only you can weave,
My lover of deep within, for me, and no one else.

Chorus

It's the way you smile, the way you cry. It's the love you inspire.
It's your heart close to mine.

As sleep overcomes, your serenity invades me,
My life it never pains me.
For you are here to calm me and bring me hope when all is lost.
A desire so instilled it makes me want to live without heed of the cost.

Chorus

I know that when you wake a contended smile will reach me,
My heart will beat with yours in time, as it always will be.
A perfect harmony that soars to heights only angels will ever see
For you are the contentment of my soul that will see it forever whole.

Chorus

As Catherine finished she looked at the bent head of Jace and smiled. "Was I that bad?"

Jace looked up tears flooded her eyes and Catherine gave her a quizzical concerned look. "What's the matter Jace? I'll promise never toÖ" She stopped as a finger was placed over her lips to stop the flow of words.

"You must promise to sing to me again Catherine it was beautiful." Jace softly entreated her partner.

Catherine laughed softly, Jace of the tender heart. "Okay partner you have a deal, but right now I think the singing lesson is over, children and breakfast are calling our names what do you say?"

Jace smiled, kissed the hand that she held and wiped away her tears. The woman who now hauled her to her feet as they turned towards the villa was never ever going to leave her life, ever!
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Thirty-nine

"Jason you can't open that! It might have private papers, surely you should let Catherine open it?" Alison spoke sharply to her husband. Before she'd had the time to tell him about Lucy he had told her about his day, which was quite normal for them, a ritual almost.

"Oh Alison you spoil sport!" Jason chuckled at his end of the line, his wife was right of course it should be given to Catherine for her to decide what to do with it. Pity though he would have loved to open that little piece of the puzzle.

Alison heard the laughter and smiled, she knew that he had already made that decision, but he involved her in such things, she had always been grateful for that. "Yes I know darling, you still love me don't you?"

"No one else that's for certain. How is our youngest?" He changed the subject to the most important one his youngest child.

"She wants to quit college." Alison stated bluntly, no good beating about the bush on this issue.

"Why?" Jason asked astounded this was the first time that Lucy had said anything about college her grades had been steady, no apparent problem there. Perhaps Constance had been correct and it was a romantic issue.

"Not sure yet but I get the feeling she has the idea that things are changing far to quickly for her to cope with." Alison said absently, pondering her child's dilemma.

"What things exactly? Everything changes Ali that's guaranteed in this life, especially as we get older. I would have thought Lucy would welcome the speed." Jason was astonished at the comment; his youngest had always been the one that seemed to take life on big time never fearing the unknown that beckoned.

"I think it's more that she feels we might be moving away from her. That she will no longer have that cushion to rely on if things get a little tough for her." Alison tried to voice her own opinion without making it seem that she had made up her mind, although she still wasn't a hundred percent sure.

"Oh, but Ali we will always be there for our children, surely she knows that. Hell look at the problems with Jace." Jason replied adamantly.

"Exactly, look at the problems with Jace. Perhaps our little girl is feeling pushed out, let's face it she and Catherine don't get on very well. That means she doesn't go to any of the family get togethers anymore." Alison tried to tactfully point out. It had been Jason who had scolded his youngest daughter over her belligerent attitude to Jace's partner.

"Whose fault is that!" Jason replied angry momentarily at the short sightedness of his daughter. Who had refused all the friendly overtures that Catherine had tried to offer since the wedding.

"I know there is a problem Jason, but that doesn't help us in this situation, what do we do?" Alison asked quietly.

Jason calmed down quickly at the quietness from his wife, she was worried, and he knew that when she asked him to find a solution to a family problem.

"Want me to come home?"

Alison smiled into the receiver, Jason no matter what he was doing always put his family first. She was sure that was one of the reasons his business had never taken off big time, eventually leaving them at the mercy of the big corporations.

"No, that's okay darling I'll handle it. I might have to stay home for a while."

"How long is a while?" Jason asked, he knew that she was right to stay with Lucy but he would sorely miss her company.

"I think it's that euphemism ëhow long is a piece of string' at the moment Jason." Alison responded she would miss him dreadfully she always did when he wasn't home.

"Maybe I should think about giving up this post and come home." He replied tentatively.

"I think there would be several people devastated if you did, I think you would be one of them Jason." Alison replied wryly as she recalled his eager anticipation of taking over the reins at Xianthos for good.

Jason chuckled, "yeah got me there Ali. As always you know me so well."

"I've been married to you for thirty two years Jason, there is a small chance I know a thing or two about you." Alison laughed softly.

"I will arrange to come home at the weekend, we'll make it a long one, let's see what we can do to help Lucy."

Alison sighed slightly, it was just the idea she had floating in her mind. He knew her well also. "I think we would both like that Jason, now get yourself to bed it's late, I'm sure you have things to do tomorrow."

Jason chuckled, he felt like a schoolboy when she said that to him. "I need to speak to Jack, then I'll go never fear darling."

"Can't it wait until the morning?" Alison asked intrigued that her husband would need to speak to his old friend at this late hour.

"I'll explain when I get home Friday evening, want to get our youngster to meet me at the airport?" Jason said enigmatically.

"How about we both do we can go out to dinner." Alison replied knowing that Jason would explain all when he arrived home.

"You have a date." They said their good byes then cut the connection.

Jason looked at the handset; mused over calling his friend in the morning deciding there was no better time than right now. He dialled Jack's number and waited for his friend to pick up.

~ ~ ~

The family had returned to the villa as darkness fell, it was very clear that they were all tired after such a long day travelling but every one of them had enjoyed themselves.

Lukas had been a good guide, his knowledge of the island an excellent indication that he loved the place and the people who lived there. They had the children on donkey rides, even managed to find a small park so that Lisa and Elena could amuse themselves. Jake had volunteered to be Elena's swing minder, so the adults could indulge in a coffee and toasted sandwich, still maintaining a close eye over them all.

They had found a small beach area, which allowed them to sunbathe for an hour. Leading to a leisurely lunch at a small tavern, in a small remote village a little further up the mountain pass. Lukas knew the owners, so were treated like VIP's, which the children thought wonderful. Having a wonderful Greek lunch that the local owners had insisted they choose. It had been superb as they all enjoyed the food, particularly Jake who loved the seafood dishes that came in abundance.

From there, they visited one or two other mountain villages, before heading for a small fishing village on a beautifully enclosed bay. It was so picturesque that Jace insisted that they stop to take photos, which she had at almost every venue they arrived at.

"Jace you don't need the photo's we can come back anytime." Catherine had laughingly pointed out to her.

Jace had turned affronted eyes to her partner, stood straight as a ramrod with hands on hips and glared at her. "Catherine you have no romance in you! Why these are memories darling, the family together. Some situations never happen again, therefore you have to capture them while you can."

Catherine had stroked her chin then felt the tug on her hand as Lisa looked up at her and winked an eye. "You can always use them as blackmail when me, Jake and Elena are like you."

Both parents laughed at their eldest child; Catherine swiftly bent down to pick up her daughter and hugged her. "Absolutely right on that one Princess."

So, they had taken picture after picture but it didn't matter fortunately Lukas didn't seem to mind in the slightest, he looked indulgently on at the family he was escorting.

A particular place interested Jace quite close to home. They decided to explore it the following day, as it was getting dark.

Now back at the villa, Constantia had been pleased to see them, she had arranged an informal meal, which would be taken in the family salon, a room that she had never used herself for obvious reasons.

Sarah had been allowed to have a couple of hours with them in the salon until she felt that she was tired.  It was clear, two hours later the woman was in her element with her stories about Constantia, who had to look away in embarrassment as her earlier life was revealed to all.

Catherine watched the scene with amusement; thank god someone else was having the show and tell experience, although she had to admit that her Aunt did react very much as she herself did. Walking over to her Aunt she placed a gentle hand on the frail shoulder, a memory struck her of a vital woman she recalled this woman being when she was a child.

Constantia looked up into ice blue eyes that mirrored her own exactly. "It's okay Aunt, think yourself lucky it's only people who love you that are giving your secrets away."

She considered the remark, then smiled up into eyes that travelled over everyone in the room with such warmth. This was the child who had held so much promise, Elena her sister had been so sure that tragedy would be the making of her. Wasn't that exactly so! Here a family who loved her surrounded her; she had found a partner in this life who matched her soul. Now she was filtering that love she received back to others, for the proof was the scene they witnessed together now. ëOh Elena you were right, how I wish Catherine hadn't needed to have suffered so, but the fates allowed so little deviation from the path you described.'

"Yes, love is a very wonderful and in this case embarrassing feeling."

Catherine smiled at that as her eyes travelled over the face of Grace who was sitting with Jake playing some kind of computer game on his hand held console. Her friend was going home in the morning and although they hadn't had much time together to talk, they would before the return journey. Grace was an integral part of her life; she would always be so, a best friend that would listen to her and hear the sob stories or the laughter, and be there through the heartache.  As she herself would for Grace, in many respects it was their destinies to be linking as such, she was grateful for the woman's presence in her life.

Faith held Elena, who was trying to keep awake by making a nuisance of herself, it appeared her grandmother didn't seem to mind. No, Faith had been a wonderful addition to the family unit, although she knew deep down that the older woman didn't really understand her and Jace's relationship. She had adapted, coming around to the different lifestyle approach and choices that people made without rancour.

Sarah looked in her element trading stories with Jace and Lisa. The child was sitting between the two adults they were all smiles, Lisa giggled from time to time, which brought even broader grins on the faces of the two adults.

Lukas had invited Althea to go to dinner with him so they were missing, the man had the look of someone suffering from unrequited love. As to the object of that love it was hard to say, they hadn't seen much of Althea Spiros.

"Yes, without a doubt love is wonderful."

Both Xianthos women looked around the room with a sense of rightness; home was most definitely where the heart was.

~ ~ ~

"She's no longer on the island. We have combed every inch of it now, there is no sign." Captain Artillius said confidently to the detective from the mainland.

"Then do so again you could have made a mistake!" Detective Secaris said arrogantly.

Artillius had taken quite as much as he was going to from this arrogant bitch; it was time he asserted himself.

"That's enough detective! My men have been out checking everywhere possible. The foreigner is no longer on the Island. Take that from someone who knows." He stated harshly.

Secaris looked at him sharply. "Are you disobeying me?"

The man turned to his desk, regarding the mountain of papers that he was now required to fill in because of the additional problems. "Put it that way, Yes!"

Secaris glared at him, these inept police on the islands had no idea what real crime was!

"I disagree, and will advise the mainland accordingly that you Captain have been uncooperative."

"Do that then, in fact tell me your commanding officer and I'll do it for you!" Artillius stated politely.

Arianna Secaris looked at him in surprise. "My superior is called Inspector Dementari, he will be interested in your report I'm sure."

Artillius smiled inwardly, Jorge Dementari was a friend from the old days, and they had even studied together. A good officer too, he had always gone towards the investigation side rather than the day-to-day routine.

"Secaris go ahead and call him, in fact do it now!"

Secaris was annoyed at his attitude quickly retrieving the phone to make the call to superior in Piraeus.  No hick island officer was going to undermine her.

Several minutes later she handed the phone to Artillius.

"He wants to speak to you." She said sullenly.

Artillius smiled at the woman as he retrieved the instrument from her. Several minutes later he passed it back to Secaris.

When Secaris replaced the receiver in the cradle she looked up with a disgusted expression. "He's taken your advice." staccato words as she picked up her briefcase and left the room her posture angry.

"Thought he might." He then went over to attempt the mountain of paper work. Maybe a holiday to LA wasn't so far away, that thought alone made the task in front of him that much easier.

~ ~ ~

Constantia had persuaded Sarah after an initial hard time to go back to bed, and they would share their evening beverage together. Sarah had acquiescented easily as the two older women left the family alone saying their goodnights as they did so.

Jake had asked to chat with Ian his friend; Catherine had moved the computer to his room so that he could do that. Faith had taken Elena to bed half an hour earlier; she had said she wanted to get a decent night's sleep as they were travelling tomorrow at lunchtime.

That left just the four of them in the room. All of them were tired; Jace said that Lisa could spend the night with them as they left for bed shortly after Constantia and Sarah.

Catherine looked at Grace and smiled, sitting opposite her friend.

"You up to the journey?" Catherine asked with concern.

Grace chuckled as she saw the concern mirrored in the ice blue eyes. "Yes. I'm fine the baby is fine. Hell Catherine my mother is coming along to make sure we get back home in one piece."

"Yeah, you and Faith together all those hours now that will be a first!" Catherine laughed softly as she saw the chagrined expression on her friend's face.

"Don't be so facetious Catherine it might bite you back." Grace replied as she sank back into the cotton-backed sofa.

"Oh, okay I won't. Colin will be ecstatic to see you, you might want to run to your Mother then." Catherine replied jokingly.

"Yes well, Colin can be as ecstatic as he wants. Trust me Catherine that man is never ever going to be without me again, I'm going to stick like glue." Grace said quietly.

"Missed him that much, huh?"

"I miss him with every fibre of my being Catherine. I just never knew how much until it was nearly too late. I want to see our children grow up, as I want to grow old with him at my side; he means everything to me. I guess sometimes you need certain events in your life to make you realise how important people are. Especially when I thought I might never see him again. Do you know something Catherine?"

"What?" Catherine asked gently.

"Sometimes you don't understand what people offer you in this world, you think everyone has an ulterior motive. But there are those that don't! They just want to make others happy regardless of the cost to themselves. Colin is one of those people, he let me go my own way but will still be there for me, no matter how much it hurt him to see me leave." Grace said seriously, her eyes clouded for the moment.

"I know exactly what you mean." Catherine answered equally seriously.

"I guess you do, Jace?"

"Yes, Jace. She has stood by me through the good and bad times; unfortunately there have been more bad than good so far. Yet, Grace she's still there and intends to be forever! I believe her too! I never thought I would, although I love her. She is the only one who can replace the dark with light; the only one I want to see every minute of the day. The only one who can make me smile when I cry, conversely the only one who can make me cry when I smile. Love is a very powerful thing my friend." Catherine spoke quietly but with warmth and conviction.

"How is Lisa?" Grace asked solemnly.

"I don't know for sure. I thought she was looking good. She appeared to be, even on the flight here. Last night she was frightened and came to us terrified of monsters. That's my fault I think."

"What do you mean your fault, no way does Lisa view you as a monster Catherine." Grace was shocked at the words.

"No! Not me as a monster! I told her a story about a monster, I should have chosen a better subject I think." Catherine said quietly.

"She loves you Catherine, there are going to be good and bad days for sometime to come. When you go home how about you have a child councillor over to help?" Grace answered gently, knowing Catherine's aversion to outside help.

Catherine contemplated the proposal smiling wryly as she nodded her head. "I will miss you my friend."

Grace smiled directly back at her. "Yeah, well I will miss you to. Please, just once keep out of trouble."

"Got that Grace, I will even promise you." Catherine grinned as they talked about something less emotive.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty

"Okay doctor what's the verdict?" The man asked in his native Slavic tongue.

The doctor looked from his enforced patient to the man who would kill him without hesitation should he feel the need.

"She is ill, very ill! I'm surprised she's lasted this long. Her injuries are severe. It will be many months perhaps even a year before she will be partially fit again." the doctor stated clinically.

"What do you mean partially fit?" The man asked brusquely.

"There can be no doubt that she will not have children, other complications may set in also that we are not aware of as yet! I cannot say at this time."

"So, she will live." The man said glancing at the unconscious figure in the bed.

"It looks that way at the moment but she is still in danger."

"Well, tell us what to do to keep her alive and we will." The dour man stated with finality.

"So be it, you will need these things to keep her alive over the next critical periodÖ." The Doctor began his listing of the black-market drugs and items they would need.

~ ~ ~

Catherine walked quietly into the room she shared with Jace and now Lisa. A tender smile crossed her face as she saw the red hair of the child resting on Jace's shoulders contentedly. Her partner was telling her a fairy story; she didn't immediately recognise or was it Lisa telling the story?

"Hey, how are we doing?" Catherine asked softly as she walked over to the bed.

Lisa looked up at her with eyes that sparkled with warmth. "I'm good Catherine."

Jace smiled up at Catherine with a twinkle in her eyes. "Wonderful darling and you?" She knew that Catherine had wanted to talk to Grace, and the opportunity had presented itself this evening.

"Wonderful too." Catherine's eyes crinkled up at the corners in amusement.

"We were finishing off a story, want to join us?" Jace coaxed her partner to become involved.

"Sure, which story?" Catherine asked as she sank down on the bed pulling Jace towards her with Lisa in her arms.

"Lisa's story." Jace said simply knowing that would throw her partner.

Catherine swallowed hard as she heard the words. "Lisa's story?"

Lisa answered the tentative question. "Yes, the one you told me on the plane coming here Catherine. I thought Mom would like it."

Catherine barely croaked out. "Did Mom like it?"

Jace heard the struggle within Catherine, after all, the story itself wasn't the type you would tell a child after a kidnapping or it would seem anyway. But in essence, it was a reminder that not all things bad end in disaster, that you had to believe in the greater good, yeah that was it the greater good.

"Mom liked it." Jace answered as she snuggled down into the broad shoulder of her partner.

"I liked it too Catherine." Lisa piped up.

"Well, I guess we can continue then. Where did we get up to?" Catherine smiled her heart lifting from the gloom that descended at the mention of the story.

~ ~ ~

"You have a marvellous family Consty." Sarah said as she leaned back on the fluffed up pillows.

Constantia smiled at her friend as she poured their late night beverages. "It is good to see family finally home here in the villa."

Sarah smiled as her friend passed over the cup of steaming liquid. Reaching for it she closed over the frail fingers and they both looked at each other at the contact. "Yes, your family Consty."

Constantia shoot her a surprised look smiling wryly. "Oh Sarah it isn't just my family it is yours too! Don't you know that?"

Sarah looked down at her fingers mangling the edge of the bedclothes as she heard the emotion in her friend's tone. Glancing up shyly she smiled at her friend. "I'd like to think so."

"It's a fact Sarah, I think of you as my family and have for a very long time my friend. I guess I never actually told you how much I care about you have I?" Constantia gave her friend a keen glance out of her ice blue eyes, not cold as iced, as a warm blue stream.

Sarah this time was embarrassed at the remark as a faint red line covered each of her cheeks. "Well, I'm your housekeeper first and foremost Consty, but I understand that you care about me."

Constantia gave her an exasperated look as she drew in a sharp breath. "No Sarah, I don't just care about you I care for you! For a long time I refused to accept love in any form, not even when I was in love with a very wonderful young man. When the opportunity passed me by or I let it, if I'm brutally honest! I was happy to consider only myself, not what others wanted or needed from me. I think that was the mistake I made with Elena's children, I didn't understand that I needed to give them more than a home and education. I needed to show them love, the love I felt long ago for my sister and others."

Sarah gave her friend a pointed glance, it was most unusual for Consty to become this emotional and talk about her love of her family, also that she had been in love once a long time ago. "Consty you don't have to tell me anything I understand."

"I know you do Sarah that's just the point, you have always understood, behind the scenes you have shown me love and companionship. I also think that it was you that Lucas went to when he wanted a shoulder to cry on, for the boy never came home to me." Constantia shrugged her shoulders, she had been thinking seriously since Catherine's last visit about her life with the children, however short that had been.

"But Consty you were there for them, Lucas loved you. He was very proud of you and wanted you to be proud of him too! He knew that you loved him Consty, he knew it." Sarah pleaded for her friend to understand.

"What of Catherine Sarah, did she ever come to you for comfort all those years ago?" Constantia eyed her friend, willing her not to lie to save her feelings.

Sarah turned to her friend giving her a smile wryly. "No, no she didn't Consty that child was way too highly strung to let just anyone near her. I suspect until Jace came into her life she wasn't a very happy or fulfilled woman."

"Thank you for being honest Sarah, I always hoped that she loved Adam even if only a little he deserved no less." She said her voice held a wistful note, that wasn't lost on Sarah as she placed her hand over the frail one of her friend's.

"He probably deserved your love, didn't he Consty?" Sarah gently asked laughing softly as she saw the surprise mirror in her friend's expression.

Constantia looked directly into her friend's face as she replied. "How did you know?"

"When people are in love Consty they can't help but show it in someway or another. Every time  he visited you in London, you developed a glow that was difficult not to miss." Sarah told her honestly, grinning as she saw the nod of her friend's head acknowledging the fact.

"You don't miss anything do you Sarah?" Constantia chuckled as she saw the pink appear on the other woman's cheeks.

"Well, of course not Consty I was the housekeeper, that's what good housekeepers do! Didn't you know that?" Sarah laughed along with her friend.

"Thank you for being more than my housekeeper Sarah. I know my life would be very barren had you not entered it and given me a reason to want to get up every morning." Constantia told her emotionally as she threaded her fingers in the stronger ones of her best friend.

Now acutely embarrassed Sarah shook her head. "Ah, it is really only my tea that you get up for in a morning or you would lounge all day in bed."

Both women laughed at the attempt to ease the tension.

"Sarah what about you? Have you ever been in love?" Constantia poured them another cup of still hot chocolate as the woman in the bed sighed and contemplated the question seriously.

~ ~ ~

Catherine stroked the blonde head that was lying on her shoulder; both Jace and Lisa were fast asleep. She was damn tired herself but in a relaxed way that was how she hoped to stay in the future.

No more of this need of adventure that seemed to course through her veins! Must be the genes she suspected, wondering about her ancestors who had lived for centuries on the island. She would ask her Aunt when the time was appropriate find out about her roots, it might prove to be a passive adventure for her, if they turned out to be colourful characters. Jace and the children would welcome that pastime rather than seeking the physical danger she so often brought on their heads.

Her thoughts once more drifted to Hudson, that woman had been a problem for so long now, it was clear that she would take every opportunity to attack the family in some way. The woman was a maniac that was the bottom line. How do you deal with a mentally unstable entity and one as cunning as Hudson appeared to be? A question she had posed on more than one occasion but still hadn't found the answer.

ëWhat on earth had her father seen in the woman in the first place to bring her into their lives? Oh father, what a fool you were.' Her thoughts although accusing, they were not as harsh  as she usually felt with thoughts of him. Being a parent wasn't that easy, she now knew that!

Her glance went tenderly to the small child nestled into Jace, a peaceful expression on the small angelic looking features, her red hair quite at odds with the facial details. Catherine knew that Grace was right they would need expert help to enable Lisa to get over the nightmare, she had been subjected too. Then it would be just a matter of time and love to help with the healing process. The family had that in abundance, their little Princess was going to be happy again without any darkness to follow her through the years, or she wasn't Catherine Xianthos-Devonshire-Warriorson!

Kissing the blonde head of her partner as she tenderly placed an arm around Jace and then Lisa. Hugging them a little closer, smiling as they both seemed to purr like kittens at the contact.

"Yes, no darkness for any of you, that's a promise I'll keep forever." Closing her eyes she drifted off and wasn't sure if it was her imagination, as she thought she heard a whispered reply as sleep finally claimed her.

"As we will keep the darkness from you, that's also a promise we'll keep forever."
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-one

"Dad you would not want me to be unhappy would you?" Lucy pleaded with her father, he had asked her once again to reconsider her position and go back to finish her degree.

Jason Bardley shook his grey head of hair, gave his youngest child a searching gaze. He didn't want any of his children unhappy but knew that sometimes you had to be cruel to be kind in this world. "No I do not Lucy, but you must understand that unless you complete your education your prospects for the future will be limited."

Alison Bardley was watching the exchange between her daughter and husband. Jason hated to be the one to chastise his children but this time Lucy had ignored all her pleas. It was Jason's time to try and convince their daughter that her current situation could be resolved, without the need for her to break her studies for a long period of time.

"I know that! But I hate it in college and I want to see something of life before I'm too old to appreciate it." Her face turned into a scowl as she faced her father, in an adversarial stance.

Alison could not help herself she laughed quickly leaving the room to make coffee. The young today thought that if they didn't have every conceivable experience before they were twenty they were too old. Perhaps she was like that at Lucy's ageÖthen again no, it didn't seem like that when she was young. Times have changed that was for sure.

Jason had jerked an amused eyebrow at his wife when she had laughed at the absurdity of the comment from Lucy. For an intelligent child his youngest did go off on a tangent sometimes. He had been hard pressed not to laugh at the comment as well, but Lucy's face had deterred him.

"Lucy how old are you?" Jason asked quietly as he sat down in his favourite chair idly picking at the corners of the dog-eared book that was on the table next to the easy chair.

Lucy snorted at the question, "as if you didn't know Dad, I'm twenty! Is your memory going?"

Jason looked up at the cocky remark from his child gave her a censured glance before he inspected the corners of the book again.

"That will be enough of that kind of remark young lady! As you are twenty, what will you do if you do not go back to college?"

Lucy shuffled back and forth before she answered, then with her back turned to her father gazing out of the window she replied. "I'll get a job!"

"You will, will you? Where exactly and doing what?" His tone was calm as he watched her back stiffen at the questions.

"I'll go work for the movie studio as Jace did. I should get a job easy especially at UCP, I know the president of the company right." Lucy remarked confidently.

Jason scratched the side of his chin in thought placing his hand over his mouth to hide the smile that passed over his features momentarily. "Oh so you know James Thompson well do you? What makes you think that you have any skills that he might be interested in to employ you?"

"Dad! It's family, that's what Jace's so called other half said at the last family gathering that I attended." Lucy said in a disparaging tone.

"Ah, now that it suits you to use Catherine's position and wealth for your own purposes you will conveniently forget that you dislike the woman, wanting nothing to do with her or her help?" Jason retorted calmly, waiting for her reaction, he expected a vitriolic defence.

"What difference does that make! She would not expect me to wait on tables. That wouldn't look good with all her money, if the papers got a hold of that information." Lucy scathingly hurled back into the room making her father cringe at her words.

"I thought I brought up my daughters to be more respectful young lady? Obviously, that isn't the case here is it? If you think that you can walk into a post purely on the back of someone else's name and fortune you have much to learn." Jason raised his voice a fraction becoming hard and steel like in its resonance.

Lucy turned to face him; she hadn't heard that tone of voice in years. It had been so rare, usually meant her Dad had made a decision that would be immovable. "If not there! I'll get a job someplace."

"Do you think it is easy to work for a living Lucy? When you are young and unqualified, as you appear to want to start out in the world. Do you think you will achieve your ambitions having to work long hours for little pay? Well do you?" Jason bit out savagely, having risen out of his chair to face his daughter.

The atmosphere in the room was electric each party standing their ground with equal forcefulness.

Turning her face towards her father Lucy gave another scowl, before replying. "No, but I will succeed Dad just as you did!"

Jason eyed his daughter with pity for that was the only emotion he could think of for her at this moment. "Times are different child, the opportunities less certain, today people want educated candidates. Lucy you are a bright woman, with the intelligence to go ahead and achieve your goals. But you need to face the real problem that's eating you, and then meet it, meet it as your first real challenge as an adult. What do you say?"

Lucy looked down at her stocking feet moving her toes absently, her eyes tracking the movement, it distracted her from her Father's words for a moment. Then she turned tearful eyes to her Father as she spoke brokenly, sobs interspersing the words. "I thought you and Mom had left me here on my own DadÖ I don't want to be here alone; when college is difficult I talk with Mom she helps and you too. Now that you are in New York I can't do thatÖ it is too far away! You've left me to fend for myselfÖbecause of that woman's influence over you all!"

Jason stepped forward gently pulled his daughter into his arms letting her cry on his shoulder, stroking her hair as she sobbed. He smiled into her hair as he placed a tender kiss on the top of her head. ëAnd she wanted to go out into the world alone.'

"Darling we haven't abandoned you, far from it! You can call us anytime you know that. I thought after two years you would have found some friends, would want your own space. Having a molly-codling Mom and Dad around would not be good for the image now would it baby?"

Lucy gazed up into the warm loving eyes of her father, smiling weakly at him. Fishing in her pocket for tissue but having a large white crisp handkerchief placed into her hands from her father, whose eyes twinkled kindly at her. "I guess not."

Alison chose that moment to re-enter the room, and saw the emotional scene as she settled the beverages on the coffee table. Sitting down quietly, patience was of the essence here she decided.

"I have an idea, how about you take the next semester off. Come to New York with us, I'll employ you at Xianthos. You will live in the apartment with your Mother and I. But you will be required to pay your way on the food and any other personal items you want in that period. In essence, except for rent you will be responsible for yourself and I mean that totally Lucy." Jason smiled at his daughter as he winked in the direction of his wife. If his child wanted to face the real world, then she could, on his terms.

"Really Dad?" Lucy was flabbergasted at the comment, he was surely backing down on his original statement about using names to create a job, wasn't this the same? Nepotism!

"Yes, really. You will start in a position that suits your current qualifications; the rest will be up to you. You will either decide working without qualifications is the way to go, or you re-enter college and work through the summer to catch up with your classes. Your call at the end of the day, I'll accept whatever you decide at that time." Jason said seriously placing her at arm's length from him so that she could see his intent.

"I'll do it Dad, I'll make you proud of me." Lucy brushed back her tears as her Mother gave her a small smile, before she was subjected to a bear hug from her Father.

As he released her she rushed out of the room to make arrangements, the words floated by them as the door closed behind her.

Jason's final comment lost on her. "Make yourself proud, baby."

Alison looked at her husband who came over to her chair as she rose from it so that they made eye contact. "You think this is the only way?"

Jason smiled his eyes warmed with the depth of love he had for his family. "This time yes. At least we will not be subjected to the uncertainty we had with Jace, when we did not know where she was for a while.  A controlled situation is better than Lucy doing something adolescent that might be extremely stupid."

"Jason what post will she be given? You can't have people thinking you are using your position in Xianthos to help relatives, it isn't right. Even if I am talking about my own daughter." Alison asked quietly, the situation was in her opinion rather reckless and unwise.

Jason pulled his wife closer nuzzling her neck tenderly. "Well, Ali there is such a thing as the post room you know."

Alison couldn't help but laugh, wondering what their youngest child would think of Daddy's proposition if she knew that! Then was lost in her husband's embrace, as he travelled from her neck with delicate kisses to her lips.

~ ~ ~

Catherine was seated between Lisa and Jake; Jace had taken Elena to the nearby beach as she watched her partner hold one of their youngest daughter's hands walking along the sands. It was a remarkable sight.

They had gone out on a family outing together. Lukas needed to escort Althea to the ferry that afternoon; she was leaving for Athens and was unable to guide them.

Jace had arranged to borrow the jeep that Lukas had previously used to take them around the island. Having just finished a light lunch in a small restaurant close to a beautiful beach cove. It had been a very happy affair and as the meal approached its end, Lisa and Jake had asked if it was okay for them to ask Catherine a couple of questions.

Jace had seen the concentration in both the children's faces; she also had a good idea what it was all about. Not wanting to leave her partner but knowing that perhaps that might be a good idea for a few minutes she had taken Elena for a stroll along the beach.

"Okay I'm all yours." Catherine said softly as she twirled the stem of her glass that held the solitary glass of wine she allowed herself with the meal.

Jake swallowed hard as he considered which one of them should ask the question. He guessed it should be him, more so when Lisa kicked him under the table.

"Catherine, a long time ago you said you would adopt us and that it would be soon. You haven't yet, we wondered if we had done something wrong?"

Catherine turned stunned blue eyes to his hazel ones then to Lisa's blue gaze that settled intently on her face. ëJesus, how did she answer that one?'

Tempted to drink the contents of the half-empty glass of wine, she instead moved it out of range giving both children a serious look.

"You haven't done anything wrong, trust me on that. I want to adopt you I really do; it isn't through lack of trying. Unfortunately the authorities at home have decided that it is not in your best interests at the moment."

"Why?" Lisa breathed out in surprise; Catherine was a Mother to them, Jace too. It wasn't fair!

Glancing down at the checked tablecloth she gave it a rueful smile, ëwhy indeed.' Turning her gaze back to the children she threaded her fingers through one of each of theirs gently.

"It is a long story, the details are something I will tell you one day, when you're a little older." Both children sighed at her mention of them being too young to understand.

"How will we understand if you can't tell us anything Catherine?" Jake asked sharply, somewhat affronted that he was still a child in her eyes.

"Yeah how Catherine?" Lisa entered the fray petulantly, although she wasn't sure why.

Catherine clasped both of their hands a little tighter but not to hurt them purely to draw attention, this was some dilemma. Her eyes scanned the beach for her partner, drawing strength from the younger woman's bright countenance as she swung Elena up in her arms hearing the laughter that action brought about.

Taking in a deep breath, she tried to explain the situation. "When I was a child, about your age Jake. I was a little wild. No, let me say I was very wild, virtually uncontrollable for my Aunt, where I lived when my Mother died." Glancing at the children in turn, she saw their rapt faces; she had certainly gained their attention.

"I did many things over a period of time that I'm not proud of when I was a teenager. I also broke the law, which I was punished for." Catherine stopped and picked up a glass of water drinking from it thirstily.

Jake's jaw dropped at the admission from his heroine, 'Catherine was a criminal'?

Lisa was opened mouthed too but managed a whispered, "did you go to prison Catherine?"

Catherine looked up to the heavens for inspiration. "Yes Princess I did. It was the most unpleasant time in my life, I wished that I'd been different but I wasn't. Now the authorities are very wary of people with my kind of background, more so when it comes to adoption, they have to make sure that the person is a decent upstanding citizen."

"But you are now Catherine, you have the ranch, you have lots and lots of money, you can have anything you want. So you are decent now, right?" Lisa piped up enthusiastically, making Catherine laugh at her exuberance.

"Lisa be quiet, Catherine hasn't finished have you?" Jake said softly, he had seen the sadness cross her face as she related her story.

"No, I have not quite finished. Yes Lisa, I hope that now I've become a decent citizen I love you both very much and want to have you officially as part of my family forever. You both know that, right?" Catherine saw them nod their heads vigorously at her question.

"The chances are slim that I can personally adopt you now. Obviously it makes me wish that I could have my time over again to not make those mistakes but sometimes our wishes are not answered, this one will never be." Catherine finished sadly.

"No one will take us away will they Catherine?" Jake asked her directly, he had seen in the orphanage other boys and girls that had been placed in homes then they returned later. He had never known why, but the children used to cry a lot when they came back. He didn't want that to happen to him or Lisa either, they were a family now and that was how it must stay.

Catherine turned anguished eyes to the boy at her side giving him a compassionate glance. "No Jake, you are being well cared for. Although the authorities are making more regular checks on me, that will not happen I promise you."

"Are you sure Catherine?" Lisa asked her eyes filling with tears as they slowly trickled down her cheeks. She didn't want to leave Catherine, Jace, her brother, sister and all the rest of the family. Who would ride her pony? He loved her and would miss her. That would be much worse than when that nasty lady had taken her away to that horrible cold, dark room!

Catherine saw the uncertainty and the dark pain that settled in the child. Releasing Jake's hand, Catherine picked up the thin child hugging her as she whispering soothingly into the red hair. "It will be okay Princess, Jace and I have a plan, want to hear it?"

Lisa gave her a tearful glance waiting as she sobbed softly unable to stem the tears totally. Jake stood up and came around to face Catherine also waiting for her plan, it had better be good or he would have to make one.

"Jace has talked with the authorities when we were in England on holiday. If everything checks out, Jace will adopt you, which means we can remain a family forever, what do you say to that?" Catherine smiled warmly at the children. Both at first unsure what to say then Jake spoke.

"Jace hasn't got a sordid past has she Catherine?" There was nothing but straight talk from her boy, had he been taking lessons from the red headed child in her arms?

"I think Jace is squeaky clean Jake. Can you imagine your Mom being any other? My past wasn't sordid Jake! Just somewhat tarnished." She tried to retrieve her reputation with her children.

Jake grinned, moving closer placing his strong arms around the two of them in a short hug, as he kissed Catherine's cheek. "Will that mean you might be a little more lenient with us if we sometimes misbehave?"

"Hey boy that's pushing it too far. Let me tell you one thing about reformed characters they become even more squeaky clean than your Mom." Catherine laughed softly as she chucked his chin; he grinned as he moved away.

"That means Jace will be my real Mom soon then Catherine?" Lisa asked in wonder as she starred at the laughing form of Jace on the beach with Elena.

"Yes, I'm sure it will Princess." Catherine answered quietly; although it brought sadness deep within her that she could not adopt them. The feeling disregarded very quickly as she felt the rightness of the situation take effect.

Lisa scrambled off Catherine's lap smiling broadly as she scampered away to catch up with Jace and her sister.

"I guess she's happy now, what about you Jake?" Turning to the boy who watched as Lisa caught the others up. Bouncing literally or so it seemed into Jace's arms, it was rather comical.

Jake looked at her seriously shrugging his shoulders a fraction. "I love Jace, she loves us and she loves you. It is right."

"Yes Jake it is right. I'm sorry I'm not able to do this myself, some mistakes catch up with you years later, mine have." Catherine moved away from the table that they had now vacated, walking towards her partner and the girls.

As they both moved away towards the slope that would take them to the beach, Jake asked cheekily. "I bet you looked great in a prison uniform."

Catherine had to laugh at his audacity pulling him close to her as she said quietly into his ear. "You mention my past like that again my dear Jake and I will cut out the computer for a month, perhaps even longer."

Jake heard the threat but it was veiled with warmth, although he knew she meant every word. He also knew she could take the joke too. "Okay, I'll never mention it again, at least not untilÖ" He bantered with her as they made their way arm in arm towards the other members of the family.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-two

Althea had allowed Lukas to take the bags she had onboard the ferry, ensuring she had a seat allocated. It was a busy ferry today therefore he had used a little influence to secure her a passage. He had been tempted to say that there wasn't any room but that would have been wrong.

Now there was just the final goodbye to take place. He fervently hoped it wasn't a final one, something in his gut told him that Althea was never going to come back to the island. Or at least not for many years, there were so many bad memories to contend with and it was going to take a long time he suspected for her to recover from the ordeal. Although it had been an ordeal for them all, Althea had been the one that had suffered the most. In a matter of days she had betrayed her family, watched her closest relatives die at the hands of a madwoman. Admittedly, her mother was mad too, but George had turned the tables on the foreigner. He had shown that he wasn't the evil killer that his mother had wanted; he had become instead a hero, a flawed hero but one nonetheless.

"You have everything for the journey Althea?" Lukas asked quietly smiling directly at her; she was a very beautiful woman he wished things had been different, how he wished that.

The young woman smiled back at the man who had proved to be a good friend when she had needed one. He may not have been her first choice, but he had proved to be the best as events had proved.

"Yes Lukas, thank you." Her response polite but warm.

"I'll check up on the villa for you, make sure that the prospective buyers are valid on your behalf." He couldn't think what else to say. He didn't want her to go but knew he did not have the right to ask her to stay, why would she for him?

Althea heard the words at first they didn't register, she wanted so much to be pulled against that broad shoulder to be held and cared for. Perhaps then she wouldn't feel the pain of the last week, held safe within his arms from any more heartache. But why would he? "Thank you Lukas I know I can rely on you. It would have been difficult to handle the sale from Athens."

"If you need anything else you know that I am here for you, whatever that might be." The man said quietly, as they both starred at each other in silence for several minutes, somehow words had no meaning.

The final call for passengers, broke their gazes as they looked around a little embarrassed, each filled with thoughts about the other but afraid to voice them.

"I think that is my call Lukas, I need to go." Althea spoke softly her eyes filled with a question he didn't understand.

"Yes it is. I suppose this is goodbye then?" Lukas managed to smile at her, though he really was not in the smiling mood.

"Yes." A single word dashing his hopes as he hung his head for a second then smiled ruefully at her.

"How about a hug before you goÖfor old times." Althea smiled as her eyes filled with tears, the poignancy of the situation creating a rush of emotion within.

"For old timesÖyes of course." She moved swiftly into his arms immediately crushed into that familiar broad shoulder, it was home or at least that was how she felt about it. Everything was lost to her except this, this one rock in a vicious sea called life.

Lukas was overwhelmed with the feeling that this woman was worth waiting for, even if he had to wait years. They shared a connection he was sure. It did not have anything to do with the tragedy that had brought them together. This feeling was something more profound than that. Could this be love?

"I will miss you Althea." He breathed into her hair placing a gentle kiss on the top of her head.

Althea felt the gentle caress moving so she could gaze up into his face. Such a dear face, he had been so very good to her. Without being able to stop herself she reached up and placed a slow tender kiss on his lips. What she hadn't bargained for was the response of her body or his, the kiss deepened and they lost all track of time and place.

A throat clearing behind them brought them gasping for breath as Althea turned distractedly to see one of the ferry crew appealing for her to go onboard.

Lukas was unable for the moment to say anything; the strength of the emotional crashing around in his body could not be silenced easily as he drew in several short sharp breaths. ëMy god what was that?'

"Goodbye Lukas." Althea finally whispered as she boarded the ferry, the gangway immediately drawn up as she touched the deck.

"You can't go!" He tried to shout, but only a croak came out, she was too far away to hear him.

The ferry began to manoeuvre out of the docking station as he watched unable to do anything but respond to the wave that Althea gave as he watched her depart out of his lifeÖfor good?

As the ferry turned he was unable to see her, Lukas closed his eyes as he recalled the tumultuous feelings the kiss they shared had invoked. No by god, she would not leave him for good; he would wait a couple of days and call her. They would work something out, even if it meant he had to leave Xianspiros himself.

Turning on his heal he went back to his vehicle and the lonely ride home, he needed to talk with Constantia it was vitally important to the rest of his life.

~ ~ ~

Grace was finally home!

She was here in her own house with her own possessions and most importantly of all her husband.

As she settled back into one of the pine chairs seated around the kitchen table, she smiled as she heard the scrunch of the gravel outside of the house and heavy boots clump loudly against the deck. Her heart raced as she heard the pace of the footsteps increase as the door to the kitchen from the main hall creak open reluctantly.

A tall figure stooped through the doorway walking steadily towards her, a grin plastered brightly over his weatherworn face. He stopped inches from her as she felt the heat that permeated from him, through the thin trousers she wore for the travelling.

"I think my Mom was glad to be back here, she became somewhat tired of the long hours on the aircraft." Grace smiled up at him, as she thought she saw ëwas that more lines around his eyes'? They crinkled up, as the impression was lost, she mentally shrugged at the silly suspicion.

"Yes, Judy welcomed her back with open arms. I think she missed your Mother, the house does get kinda lonely being so big." Colin didn't divert his attention from his wife's face; he could stand here forever if she'd let him and just watch her.

They had a rather quiet welcome home. Colin wasn't the demonstrative type in public and with her Mother present even less so. He'd collected the bags quietly after kissing her briefly, surprisingly kissing her Mother's cheek too. It was rather embarrassing for him but Faith had loved the unexpected attention.

"What about you?" Grace whispered catching her breath as she saw the raw emotion cross his face, his need for her transparent as she gazed into his expressive eyes.

Dropping to his knees beside her chair he picked up her hands and kissed each one with a tender caring as she felt the tears prick at her eyes. He might not like public displays, when they were alone that was a different situation altogether, and she loved every minute of it.

"I missed you Grace!" he said hoarsely as he looked up into her eyes all his love laid bare for her alone to see.

Moving forward slightly she removed her hands from his placing them around his face, looking directly into his grey eyes, her own brown ones reflecting the measure of love she had for him. "I missed you too Colin, you will never know how much." Her tears slowly trickled down her cheeks and she placed a gentle kiss on his lips that quickly developed into a more passionate encounter.

As they moved apart Grace tenderly stroked the hair that was growing down the nape of his neck, he needed a haircut. "I love you darling, I always will." Grace whispered into his ear, she could feel him shiver at the sensation her warm breath produced on the sensitive skin.

He kissed the side of her neck softly replying, "Grace you're the reason why I live. I adore you, worship you and love you to distraction."

Grace felt her heart soar as he spoke the words filled with such intensity that she wanted to be lost in his arms for the rest of their lives, never moving away from each other. Then junior decided to make his or her presence known as she jerked back in surprise rather than pain.

"Darling are you okay?" Colin asked anxiously thinking he had somehow hurt her.

Grace looked into his distressed features and shook her head slowly; smiling wryly she quickly retrieved one of his large hands placing it over her swollen abdomen. The baby was certainly moving around today, guess the journey must have woken him or her up.

Colin looked up at her grinning boyishly; he looked soÖso thrilled at the feeling of movement. "I think our son or daughter wants to be a footballer Colin?" Grace laughingly remarked as she felt his hand though large and coarse but very gentle against the fabric of her cotton shirt.

Grinning from ear to ear he replied. "I know someone who will teach himÖ or her well, when the time comes." Grace's quirky look as he almost forgot the fact that a daughter could play the sport too was amusing.

"Perhaps we should, on the next scan ask to know if the baby is a girl or boy?" Grace asked her husband tentatively, as he stroked her belly absently, the baby appeared to be soothed by the gentle caress.

"I thought we agreed that it didn't matter and a surprise would be good?" Colin was surprised at Grace's question. He had been quite eager to know at the beginning, but she had said a surprise was the best. He didn't mind that, so long as they were both okay at the end. What did it matter a son or daughter both were equally as precious.

"Yes, yes I know butÖoh never mind." She said quietly, her eyes shadowed with a touch of sadness fleetingly.

Colin could sense her unease and if that's what she wanted then of course that was what would happen. "Okay the next scan we find out if we are having a son or daughter."

Grace eyed him suspiciously and then smiled warmly at him. "Lots of things happened on this trip Colin. They made me realise how short life was and how important it is to live each day to the full never to allow people you love to trickle through your fingers as if they didn't matter. I realised that the people I loved were so very important in my life, and never to go a day without telling them that in some small way."

Watching silently as Colin stood up to his tall height she looked up knowing she couldn't keep that position for long or she would crick her neck. Then Colin held out his hand to her and hauled her gently to her feet and pulled her into a gentle embrace, her head resting on his shoulder.

"Grace tell me?" The question was so quietly spoken she wasn't sure she heard it, but knew she had.

"I would like to call our son George or our daughter Georgina." She simply stated. As her tears began all over again, for a life lost and yet so many saved.

Colin felt helpless as his wife succumbed to her emotional state. Some would say it was hormonal but he knew differently. Something had happened in Greece that had profoundly affected his wife. "Want to tell me all about it and I'll make the tea?" He responded gently.

Grace looked up into his kind dear face, why do we run away from love? This was love; it felt so comforting and right! "Yes."

Colin tenderly steered her towards the lounge settled her in her favourite chair as he kissed her and departed to make the tea. Today was Grace's day to narrate her adventures, and the events that had obviously changed her life in a very profound way. Tomorrow would be his day to explain the events surrounding Danni O'Neil.  That was tomorrow and today was his wife's day.

ëGeorge? Georgina? Yeah why not we might set a trend!' He thought as he went back into the kitchen to make tea.

~ ~ ~

"You told them?" Jace asked Catherine as they sat quietly together watching the setting of the sun on the balcony.

"They asked. I decided the truth was the best defence. Was I wrong?" Catherine shifted slightly hooking her arm around Jace's shoulders to bring her closer.

"No, no darling you made the right call." The blonde head rested gently on the broad shoulder of her partner.

"Perhaps."

"Perhaps? You have doubts?" Jace asked, looking up and only seeing from her vantage point the strong chin of her partner.

"Well, it isn't everyday that you find out that one of the people you call a parent is a jailbird, now is it?" Catherine starred at the brightness of the sunset; it was full of bright oranges, pinks and soft blues.

"True, but Catherine that was years ago, you were a child yourself." Jace pointed out surprised as long arms swiftly encased her, pulling her forward so that they could meet eye to eye.

"I was not a child!" The half-hearted cry brought a smile to Jace's lips. At one time that would have caused untold fireworks now there was just a spark, Catherine wouldn't be Catherine without the spark.

"No, sorry a young woman who made a few interesting choices, is that better?" Chuckling, the blonde turned sparkling emerald eyes to the ice blue ones and was immediately forgiven, if the warmth in the depths of those eyes had anything to do with it.

"That's better." Catherine said rather petulantly. Although she knew that Jace was right, the first time around. She had been a child, had never learned any lessons along the way from people who wanted to share their experiences in a loving educational way. But who takes notice when you're seventeen and out to do everything but what the adults want you to.

"So, what did the kids think of your past?" Jace had to smile but masked it, for she suspected that it hadn't been easy for Catherine to admit her past life.

"Lisa wanted to know if I had become a decent citizen." Catherine had to laugh softly as she recalled the serious expression in her eldest daughter's face, a rather rare event for Lisa.

"I'm sure you convinced her of that, didn't you?"

"Absolutely." Replied the taller woman as she gazed at the serenity of the horizon before them.

"And Jake?" The blonde was fascinated with Jake's reaction, for Catherine could really do no wrong in his eyes.

"Well, he wasÖlet me say he had a different perspective." Catherine finally finished, giving nothing away.

"A different perspective huh? Please Catherine tell me more, I'm all ears." Jace laughingly remarked rewarded with a nip to the said ears, which made her giggle all the more.

"Well, how about I'm not going to tell you." Her partner smiled as she said the words, Jace knew she would hear it. You just had to push the right buttons.

"How about I say please in a different way." Her lips trailed the soft skin of her partner's neck and she felt the tension building in Catherine as she did so.

"Mmm I think you can say please in this way any time you want." Catherine murmured her train of thought now with the sensual exploration that Jace was subjecting her body to.

"Why not tell me now Catherine and I'll put you out of your misery." Jace seductively whispered into her ear.

"This is misery? Then please Jace let's have some pleasure here." Her partner rasped out and had to be brought round to the question at hand as smaller fingers tilted her chin to look her straight in the eye.

"Tell me what Jake said?" Jace demanded softly.

"He said he would have loved to see me in a prison uniform or words to that effect." Catherine was brought out of her sexual stupor by Jace's loud laugh and the shaking of her body in mirth. This wasn't happening to her surely?

"Have you finished Jace?" Catherine waited a few minutes before she asked the question of the blonde who was obviously enjoying the comment way too much in her opinion.

"YesÖyes sorry darling." Jace spluttered gaining her outward composure although inside she was smiling wickedly.

"You find it funny?" Catherine was now giving her partner a more sombre look; it was bad enough for Jake to take advantage but Jace too? What was the world coming to?

"NopeÖno wayÖwould I?" The blonde looked at the stoic expression and grinned at her with affection.

"Oh come on Catherine, I bet you looked cute in a prison uniform, can't blame him now can you. I know it would have crossed my mind, in fact more than crossed my mind." Catherine looked up perplexed raising her expressive eyebrows in question.

"What exactly?" She asked tentatively.

"Well, if you decide you want an early night tonight, how about I show you what I would think of a prison uniform?" Jace's voice lowered into a husky sexy quality that had Catherine's blood pounding through her body at three times the rate it normally did.

"What about Lisa?"

"Lisa decided that she needs to stay with Elena to protect her from the dark. Now that Faith has gone home, I decided that having the two girls in our room was only going to cause problems later. So, this evening I mentioned in passing that Elena was going to stay in her own room." Jace explained with a twinkle in her eye.

"I married a very clever woman didn't I?" Catherine smiled warmly at the smaller woman who was now held in a loving hold.

"Yeah, yeah actually I think you did! Do you want an early night?" Her voice bantered playfully.

"With you anytime my love, anytime at all." Catherine grasped Jace's hand and led her quickly out of the room.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-three

"Think it's the right decision?" Jason asked Constance Waverly who was looking remarkably relaxed and it was only eight a.m. on a Monday morning too.

He had taken the afternoon flight to New York from LA, arriving at midnight. Alison had taken it upon herself to stay with Lucy until they had settled everything with the college authorities. Although there probably wouldn't be too much of a problem as it was supposed to be one semester only. Jason expected them to arrive in New York towards the end of the week and Lucy could start work on the following Monday morning bright and early. He smirked as he could imagine his youngest daughter's face when she was told that the mail workers started at six a.m., still, she wanted the opportunity, and who was he to deny it to her.

"Yes Jason it has wonderful prospects. I think it will be a very profitable addition to the Xianthos Corporation. Have you informed Catherine yet?" Constance smiled as she wondered what the owner would make of the newest acquisition at least in part, to the portfolio.

"No, not yet. I wanted to run it by you first then basically tell her after the event, she did say she would leave the decision making to the Executive Team and me. Why bother her with something that isn't even going to make a dent in the bank balance." Jason walked over opening the door to his office as he grinned at Rita Tuscany, who had arrived at her desk moments earlier. She wasn't officially due in the office until eight thirty, although she generally turned up half an hour early to check the mail.

"Morning Mr. Bardley, is there anything I can get you?" Rita gave him a cheerful grin. She enjoyed working for the new president; the pay was pretty good too, especially considering she was getting married shortly.

"Morning Rita. Actually yes, would you contact all those on the Executive Team have them in the conference room at nine sharp." Jason smiled at Rita and then turned back to Constance in his office.

"Nine okay with you Constance?"

"Yes, I'm not due to leave for my flight to London until later this afternoon." Constance stated quietly.

"Then nine it is. When you've arranged that for me I'd love one of your special brews." Jason winked at her leaving his PA smiling, as he shut the door behind him.

"Jason has anyone ever told you how charming you are? If Rita wasn't head over heals in love with her fiancée I would hazard a guess she'd have a crush on you." Constance teased softly as she saw the man colour up slightly.

"That's ridiculous! She's a lovely young woman and very helpful. Now don't go starting those kind of rumours Ms. Waverly, whatever would my wife say?" Jason played along with the tease smiling broadly at her.

"Yes she is very helpful. Well, I will go and check over what I need Clare to do for me when I'm away, I'll see you at nine." Constance deposited the folder she had been reading on his desk and left the room.

Jason looked around the sparsely furnished office that had been Catherine's whenever she had been in the building; he was struck by the opulence and comfortable one of her Father's. This austere and businesslike room obviously reflected that the woman hadn't cared to take her Father's office. It would also seem she didn't have his need to surround herself with familiar things. There hadn't even been the odd photo of family on her desk. It was just a desk, efficiently run as he surmised she ran most things outside of Jace. That brought a tender smile to his lips as he pictured the stoic Catherine Warriorson trying to bring efficiency into her family life. It just wasn't going to happen with Jace and the children. Chuckling he placed a call to personnel, he needed to have Lucy approved for temporary mailroom duty a week from today.

~ ~ ~

Catherine watched Jace and the children on the beach. She had to strain her good eye to do so but managed, startled when Constantia bid her good morning.

"Why good morning Aunt, I'm sorry I wasn't aware that you had entered the room." Catherine smiled at her Aunt who had settled her chair as close to the balcony railing as she could, to see what had fascinated her niece so much she lost all her other senses.

"I see your family are enjoying their holiday." Constantia said, she laughed inwardly at her nieces pre-occupation, her sister would have been so happy to see this.

"Yes, yes they are. Thank you for your hospitality Constantia it must be difficult to have children around, after so many years of it being just the three of you." Catherine turned her blue gaze back to the frolics of her family on the beach.

"On the contrary Catherine I love to hear children enjoying themselves, for too long now the villa has not had that particular joy within its walls." Her Aunt replied softly as they went quiet for a few minutes.

"Has it been difficult for you to have children around?" Catherine turned in surprise at the question from her Aunt, contemplating her answer before she spoke.

"Yes. At first it was difficult to have two strangers in my home. I'd lived a solitary life for so long, the closest to a friend I had was Grace and god only knows how she put up with me for so long. However, it was hard to adjust. I was fortunate it came at a time in my life that I had met Jace, she turned my life upside down, therefore a couple of children were not going to be any more surprising." Catherine smiled as she recalled her early days with the children, especially the time when Jace had left and she had to fend for herself with them.

"Now you have three children." Her Aunt remarked gently.

"Oh yes, now we have three children and what a child Elena is turning out to be, I can't believe she's Jace's daughter at times. She tends to have more of my arrogant personality traits than she does her mother's more benevolent ones. Guess it must be living with me, I'm rubbing off on her early." Catherine chuckled as she brought up an image of the scowling Elena, her tantrums that had them both at the end of their tether on occasion it was worth it though.

"Yes, I have seen the faces she pulls. Would you care to share tea with me? Perhaps if you wouldn't mind I could show you some family photographs?"  Constantia asked tentatively, not sure if her niece would be receptive to the sharing of old memories.

"Family photo's? Sure. Would you mind if I call the family over to see them?" Catherine decided that as her family had only a sketchy knowledge of her background, now that was tarnished to a degree, perhaps seeing old photographs might help a little to balance things out.

"Yes of course, that would be wonderful. I will have Lukas bring the books into the family room, we can have a snack over tea for the children." Constantia wheeled her chair towards the door at such a speed that Catherine was sure it had horsepower.

Chuckling softly she turned her gaze back to the family antics, setting a glow within her that brought a tender expression to her features. Who would have thought it, that she could ever have reached such a pinnacle in her life! Others took family life for granted and never saw how fortunate they were; she wouldn't ever do that again. No, this time she was ready for the responsibility having a long-term partner in life and children who depended on you brought with it. She was committed; nothing else in her life had felt so certain. For today and all the rest of her tomorrows she was going to be there for them, make them happy and keep them as safe as she could. No half measures this time; they would have the full impact of Catherine Xianthos-Devonshire-Warriorson's love for them all. Her eyes alighted on the blonde head of her partner as her heart soared; emerald eyes from the beach below suddenly ensnared her.

"I love you too Jace." Catherine whispered moving towards the small gate that led to steps to the beach below, her chance to say that person to person, to the woman below.

~ ~ ~

"We've spent a fortune is she really worth it?" The large burly man asked his leader who was steadily watching the progress of the American woman who potentially could help them achieve their goals.

"Yes! She has assets that are more than monetary. She knows people who might aid our cause, she was particularly adamant that there was someone who could be exhorted out of millions of dollars. That is enough to try to save her." The smaller man said seriously, his eyes flicked from the man back to the woman in the bed.

"If she dies we will have wasted our much depleted income on her, what then?"

"Then we get a bounty for her from the authorities, our contacts say that a private individual has agreed to a handsome sum in reward, if she is brought to the authorities dead or alive."

"Then why not do that now, rather than waste our time and resources on her?" The large man asked puzzled why they should go to so much trouble for one unknown woman.

"All in good time Gustaf, all in good time." The other man smiled at his right hand man, walked past him to check on the plans for the next terrorist raid.

"All in good time! What is that supposed to meanÖ." the man muttered as he followed the leader out of the door.

The pale-featured woman was sleeping in a drugged state, the drugs she had been given powerful enough to keep an elephant asleep for a week.

Only time would tell if she would be useful to them alive or dead, either way they would win. The woman was merely a source of income, other than that she was worthless to them.

~ ~ ~

Jason sat back in his chair gazing at the keys that he held in his hands; he turned them over, inspecting the ornate pattern on the two keys that opened the drawers in the large desk in Stewart Devonshire's office.

He was so immersed in his own thoughts that he failed to hear the light tap on his door as Constance opened it walking in, smiling at his pre-occupation.

"AhemÖ" She coughed into the silent room to draw his attention, away from the thoughts that looked puzzling to her.

Jason quickly looked up and gave Constance a quirky smile. "Lost in thought again, you will be thinking I'm too long in the tooth for the role of chairman."

Constance smiled at him and sat down in the chair he had indicated as he spoke to her. "No, but the expression on your face looked as if you were trying to figure something out. Care to share? I might be able to help?"

"Yes, well it is a puzzle but not one I can answer, perhaps only Catherine can." Jason replied absently as Constance drew up her chair closer to the desk replying.

"Really. How so?"

"Have you ever been inside her Father's old office?" Jason asked. He knew of course that she hadn't been employed in New York when Catherine's father had been heading the operation, although she might have met him along the way.

"No, can't say I have. In fact has anyone since he died? I recall Paul saying that it was the one office in the building he didn't have a key to, only Catherine or Security under extreme measures could enter." Constance said intrigued now at his question.

"I see. Well, it wasn't an extreme situation, more curious. I went inside late last week." The man informed her watching for her reaction.

Constance raised an eyebrow in surprise. "You did? How?"

"I found a key in this desk drawer my curiosity was peaked. I looked around, tried what was the only door that hadn't been replaced with one of the new locking systems, amazingly it fit." Jason explained quietly.

"Did you find anything interesting?" The woman sat back wondering what the room would be like. Would it be like this utilitarian office that his daughter had used?

"It reflected the man I think, not that I knew him of course. But what I've heard, also read about him and his habits."

"Anything else?" There was more Constance was sure of it.

He rubbed his chin, felt the bristle starting to take root again. Alison had always warned him that if he didn't shave twice a day he would have a beard by the end of the day. An exaggeration of course, but he knew it would be easy to grow if he wanted facial hair at any time.

"There were some photo's, a diary and a steel box. I don't think Catherine knows about them or they wouldn't have been left behind." Jason said his thoughts now back to the steel box and it's contents.

"Photo's, wow! I bet they are interesting along with a diary and not to mention a mysterious steel box. Quite a find Jason, have you sent her the items?"

"Not yet, I was going to call her, tell her about them. She might not be happy that I've invaded the privacy of her late Father's office." Jason replied a little bleakly, he didn't want to upset Catherine and it might do just that. Perhaps he should speak to Jace first but then that would be hiding behind his eldest daughter, he didn't want that either.

"Well, from what I remember of the gossip, and it was only gossip I might add that went on at the time of her father's death, and her taking up the reigns here, she had no time for him at all. Didn't appear to like her father, therefore I don't think she will particularly care now, do you?" Constance tried to see it from Catherine's often black and white approach to a problem.

Jason shook his head at the words, "perhaps Constance. But that was several years ago. If you hadn't noticed recently, family has taken on a totally different light with Catherine. Maybe her Father has also been taken back into her life in a more receptive way?"

"Well, the only way to find out is if you ask her."

"I know, I think I'll make that call now. Are you ready to leave for London?" Jason placed his hand on the intercom button to ask Rita to make the connection for him.

"Yes, Eduardo is looking forward to my visit, he say's he has good news. Actually he sounds like the old Eduardo full of beans and I'm pleased about that. He must have finally found the night life, also the ladies of London." Constance grinned as she recalled the VP for Europe and his rakish ways.

"Oh, Mr. Forencio is a ladies man?" Jason chuckled; he had heard many things about the different VP's around the globe that hadn't come out in recent discussions.

"WellÖlet's just say this Jason, if there is a very pretty woman who takes his eye he will be the man for the chase." Smiling Constance stood up ready to leave. She had looked briefly at her watch it was time for lunch. Having arranged a table at the small restaurant two blocks away, for her and Clare to have a final hour alone before she went travelling around Europe, Africa and Asia on business for three weeks.

"Don't know about you but a pretty woman turns my head too, as old as I am." Jason laughed and then turned embarrassed eyes towards the woman who smirked at his comment.

"I quite agree with you on that one Jason. I'll check in with you before I leave. Good luck with your call to Catherine." The woman left him slightly open mouthed as she closed the door behind him.

"Me and my big mouth." Then laughed at the absurd thought, well she was bound to like a pretty woman wasn't she! Pressing the intercom finally he asked Rita to make the connection for him.

~ ~ ~

Grace looked at her husband and his bowed head as he picked up the tea she had made for them. He had told her the events of the Danni O'Neil episode, although she had been upset that Danni had been allowed to stay the night here in her home with her husband alone. She felt a sense of sorrow at her demise; the woman had not been that bad, she had been so young. Things certainly turned out unexpectedly in life.

"I'm not happy about her staying here Colin, I trust you implicitly but why not let her stay in the main house with my mother and Judy? Surely that would have been a more obvious choice?" Grace asked softly as she turned questioning brown eyes to the grey troubled ones of her husband, who had decided to sit opposite her in his retelling of the events rather than beside her on the sofa as normal.

"Grace I couldn't let her stay in the main house with the children, at the same time I couldn't let her drive in those conditions either. I was at a loss; it seemed the right thing to do at the time. I'm sorry darling truly I am." Colin admitted feeling that he had betrayed his wife for allowing Danni to stay in their home, he really hadn't thought about the gossip the situation could have presented.

Grace saw the defeated expression in his eyes he was so kind, he looked out for others even at a cost to himself. If she hadn't experienced the events in Greece, would she be as tolerant to his explanation? She hoped so, knowing that she more than likely would have been more antagonistic. Now all she felt was sorry for the woman that died pleased that at least her last few hours had been in a kind environment.

How about you come over here, allow us to know how much you love the baby and I." Grace gave him a wide smile as he virtually flew across the short space that separated them, sinking down into the sofa gently cradling his wife to his broad chest.

"I love you Grace." His words were heartfelt and sincere.

"Glad to hear that, can't have junior here thinking their Dad had fallen out of love with me before they were born." Grace teased him, as Colin glanced at her sharply for any evidence in the expression that she believed that in anyway.

"I will never stop loving you Grace or the baby! It just will never happen as long as I breathe in this life." Colin said rather dramatically, although it made Grace feel warm all over at his words.

"In that case how about you seal that with a kiss, I'll not tell the ranch hands what a romantic you are." Grace chuckled as he placed large gentle hands around her face.

Smiling as his face moved closer to do her bidding, he stroked her lips with a tender touch of his finger. "If that's the price of your blackmail Grace, please practice it more often, it will be a pleasure to give in to your demands." Gentle lips replaced the fingers as they lost themselves in the love that surrounded them.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-four

"You made my Father's day darling thank you." Jace kissed the side of Catherine's neck as she was snuggled up next to her in bed. Her partner's longer arm snaked around her securely.

"I did? How?" Catherine murmured as her heart started to beat rapidly with the gentle caress that sent all her senses racing uncontrollably.

"Oh you know Catherine!" Jace smiled as she decided that the neck so close to her lips could do with a closer inspection. Turning slightly in Catherine's arms to enable her to rest half on and half off her partner.

Chuckling, as she sucked in a shallow breath as Jace began a more detailed exploration of her neck, sending impulses racing around her body at an enormous speed.

"Yes, I know, it was easy. I wish all things could be that simple to make someone happy." Catherine said as her voice lowered with the feelings that were building in her body.

Jace heard the slight inflection of doubt in her mind. Moving so that she was now sitting astride the taller frame of Catherine's.

"What's the problem love?" a tentative question that reflected in the soft compassionate emerald eyes, starring intently into the ice blue orbs beneath her.

"Nothing." Catherine smiled up into the beauty that was Jace, those wonderful eyes that always captured her soul in a gentle gaze.

Placing a hand on Catherine's stomach she stroked it lightly, feeling the immediate reaction her touch had on her partner. "Nothing huh, want me to tickle it out of you?"

"Jace! Really, what do you mean?" Knowing full well that Jace would tickle her into submission. Another facet of her partner that she loved, the way Jace handled her when she wasn't sure of what she was feeling herself.

"You know I'll tickle you, until you tell me what I want to know. Why not save yourself the trouble and just tell me now." Jace giggled as her fingers traced over the sensitive skin with a little more pressure.

"Jace, please you know I'll retaliate." The warning clear as the ice blue eyes shot up to capture the twinkling ones of her partner.

"Oh lover I'm counting on it, I love the feel of your hands on me." Jace chuckled softly, beginning her campaign to get her way, stopped unexpectedly as longer fingers clutched hers, stopping the movement.

"I can't bring people back to say I'm sorry Jace." Catherine said solemnly, as she traded glance for glance with the woman who shared her very essence, she was sure of it.

Jace heard the slight tremor as the words were spoken, feeling the pain that her partner experienced. At least now Catherine had someone she trusted to share it with.

"Yes, that's true darling we can't bring people back. However, we can always tell the people what we are thinking now and say sorry." Jace replied in a hushed voice.

Catherine blinked a few times not really understanding what Jace meant. Talk to the dead? Hell she'd been doing that for years with Lucas and Adam hadn't she? This was different.

"How?" Her eyes locked with the emerald ones above her, beseeching Jace to find the answer on her behalf.

Smiling tenderly, Jace placed a finger down the scared left cheek moving it upward to touch the numerous lines that were now evident over the blind eye, unable to focus on her, remaining merely impassive to the touch.

"Who do you want to say sorry to?"

Catherine felt a tear roll from beneath her left weak eye. That was really rather embarrassing the weakness. Gruffly to disguise her discomfort over the action of the tears she responded.

"I wanted to say it to my son Lukas, my brother, Adam, my father and Maria." Her words although gruff were laden with deep sorrow.

"Then do it Catherine, take some time alone talk with them all. Or write them a letter, explain everything you feel and want to say to them. No one else needs to see the letter, but it might help you overcome the hurt and sadness." Jace lowered her head, kissing the full lips tenderly in a gesture of comfort and understanding without the passion that usually consumed them.

Catherine thought about the suggestion, knowing Jace had a point. Maybe if she wrote what she felt down to each of them? Perhaps that would lay them to rest concluding the sorrow she felt at her own actions in the earlier years. Not only was she sorry but grateful too. For without some of the situations in her life however painful, would she be here now with this wonderful woman beside her to love and guide her through the rest of her life? Yes, she had much to thank them for too and she would, she certainly would.

"I love you Jace." Catherine's heart went out with the words, Jace felt it like it was cupid's arrow making a direct hit to her own heart.

"Oh my love I know that, I love you too. Whatever you decide I'm here for you, if you want to talk, I'm a good listener. If you want to be alone with this, then take all the time you need." Jace murmured as she kissed Catherine once again this time the warm of their love heating up the passion slowly.

"I don't know what I did to deserve you Jace?" Her voice low, the blonde could feel the sensual haze begin to take effect on the woman lying naked beneath her, not only physically but emotionally as well.

"You loved me Catherine." Jace stated simply, as she saw the mounting passion flare with intensity at the simple words.

"For all your tomorrow's Jace and beyond." Catherine rasped out, as she placed her hands on her partner's warm soft inviting body. Gradually easing her down until their bodies were moulded together to such an extent that it was hard to tell if they weren't one entity.

"As I have all yours Catherine and always will." Jace was lost as the passion between them ignited and everything but the love they shared was forgotten, held in time for later, so very much later.

~ ~ ~

Jason grinned as he opened the large oak door to Stewart Devonshire's old office. The cleaner's had been inside and literally did a great job of cleaning and polishing everything in sight to make it look as if it hadn't been empty all those years. The maintenance and communication people would do their tricks of magic during the week, to bring the office into the twenty-first century. He was certain looking at the place, Devonshire himself would be happy with the work.

There had been an amusing moment when he had disappeared into the kitchen area prior to the cleaners arriving. He could hear voices as he placed the garments that were hanging in the cloakroom into a plastic holdall.

"I can't believe I'm back in here after all these years Sally." A woman's voice said clearly, Jason wasn't sure if eavesdropping was a good thing or a bad thing at that moment.

"You cleaned in here before? Has it changed?" the other woman replied.

"Oh goodness me no! Mr. Devonshire would be pleased to see that his daughter hadn't dismantled the place. In fact it wouldn't surprise me if the owner will not come through that door as we speak." The first woman said with a chuckle.

"Really Dot, you and your imagination. Next thing you know you'll say Devonshire haunts the building!" the second woman said teasingly.

Jason decided that he had better move, almost bursting out laughing at the shocked faces of the two cleaners who were startled as he came out of the kitchen. Walking past them he commented quietly and winked as he left.

"I think all the ghosts have been put to rest now ladies, good afternoon to you."

Jason had to smile as he entered, admitting it would have been tragic if the room had been dismantled. He guessed it was an era long since passed, especially in this day and age of fast moving technology. He was of the old school so it suited him, not to mention all those books and first editions too!

He moved past the large impressive desk and sat down in the larger than life chair sinking into its now polished leather depths. Recalling his conversation with Catherine.

"You went inside my Father's office? Why?" Catherine had Elena on her knee; the child was tugging at her hair, and a particularly uncomfortable pastime the child indulged in with her. Her words interested but not aggressive in anyway.

"I found a key in your desk drawer it kind of fascinated me. So much so I had to find out which door it belonged to if it had any use at all. I wasn't aware of the restriction you had on your Father's old office or I would never have gone inside." Jason admitted honestly.

"Okay, so what did you find?" Catherine was trying to keep up with Jason's conversation but the pain her daughter was inflicting was taking more of her attention.

"I found some old clothes, photo's, a diary and a metal box. The room itself is full of books, which I do believe many are first editions." Jason couldn't stop the awe he felt at the numerous books that were worth a fortune housed in the office.

"Well, I guess that would be easyÖElena behave! Sorry Jason your granddaughter is trying to get my attention, hair pulling is a very strong point of hers at the moment." Catherine explained as Jason murmured his understanding.

"First editions? Well, makes sense he was a book publisher and had a large author base. Was the diary a business one or personal?" Catherine asked, not really that interested in its contents.

"I guess a little of both really, mainly business notes though.  The photo's are very personal and seemed to have been viewed frequently." Jason said quietly.

Catherine's interest diverted from her daughter to the man at the end of the line and his words. Photo's seemed to be the order of the day it would appear.

"Tell me more."

"I can't really, I don't know the people in them. I suspect that there are one or two of your parents, maybe you and your brother when you were very young. The others I'm not sure at all, although there are some more recent shots of a child, a boy from being a baby to maybe two or three." Jason tried to give her a flavour of them as best he could.

Catherine took a deep breath at the images that came to her mind of her son who would have been around Elena's age when her Father died. As the impressions became more acute she pulled her daughter closer to her kissing the head of the child. "My son."

Jason heard the emotion of the two words, now feeling somewhat distressed at the discussion, particularly if it had been to do with his meddling.  "I'm sorry Catherine, I'll send them to you directly."

Catherine felt the sadness leave her as she stroked the dark haired child in her arms.  Elena had appeared to understand that there was a problem with her mother, deceased her activities as she became docile in the embrace.

"No! No that's fine Jason please you said there was something else?"

Jason fingered the box and the key that held it's own secrets if it had any to reveal. "There was a metal strong box, I have the key also." He stated simply, what happened next was her call.

Catherine smiled into the dark soft head of hair Elena had rather predictably gone to sleep. Jace might be upset a little as it was almost the child's bath time, but if she volunteered entertainment duty to put the child to sleep again then perhaps she would be forgiven.

"Have you seen the contents at all?"

"No! Of course I wouldn't open it Catherine that is your prerogative." Jason was shaking his head vigorously, although he knew that she couldn't see it.

Wanting to laugh but knowing that would disturb Elena she just slowly nodded her head, smiling wryly. If Jason were anything like his daughter he would have at least been very curious. "Okay then Dad let's open it shall we. Would you care to do the honours?"

Jason spluttered asking if she was sure.

Two minutes later he had the steel box open starring at the contents.

"Cat got your tongue Jason." Catherine said laconically.

She heard him going through the box as a rustle of papers; a chink of metal or a hard object clearly pierced the silence between them.

"There is a bunch of letters, old letters tied together with silk. Addressed to your father, can't quite make out who the name of the sender, it has faded with time. A couple of official looking documents, that are sealed and I think you should open those Catherine; they are addressed to you and Lucas Devonshire. Some jewellery, a wedding ring is amongst the items, it's small so maybe it belonged to your mother. More photo's and more letters to your father from someone called A Warriorson." As he said the last name Jason realised that it was probably Catherine's deceased husband's.

"Other documents also and many are sealed, I think the contents you should go through yourself, I'll send them along to you." Jason could see by the items that this was a man's life in a box, okay not his whole life but the most important events as he saw it.

"Thank you Jason send them home to me." Catherine whispered as she realised for the first time that her Father hadn't forgotten her, or Lukas. He had just lost his way when their Mother had died, never finding the way back.

"I will, by courier today." Jason remarked solemnly, he could hear for himself that the contents in some way had moved Catherine profoundly.

Just as he said that Catherine looked up into the gentle loving eyes of Jace who had entered the room without a sound, obviously hearing the last sentence from her partner.

"Your Daughter is here Jason, want a word?" Catherine spoke lowly as her eyes refused to release Jace's, an emotional current passed between them.

"Of course I do Catherine, I have some news for her too." Jason smiled as he wondered what Jace would make of Lucy's new situation.

"Okay, thank you Jason for your help in this matter. By the way do you like my Father's office?" Catherine asked as she moved slowly so that she didn't disturb the sleeping child, to stand and pass the receiver over to Jace.

"Did I like it? Did I like it, my god Catherine it's a home from home for me." Jason enthused happily.

"Then by all means make it yours Jason, it's time the ghost of my Father was finally laid to rest, perhaps you can do so." She passed the instrument over to Jace, walking around the room humming softly to the child as her partner took the rather excited call from her hands.

"So, Dad what's the news?" Jace asked with a grin as she gave Catherine a loving glance, settling down to chat to her Father for a short time.

Catherine smiled back at the blonde, deciding that tonight Elena was probably better off just going to bed as she was, minus a few of the clothes. Walking over to the door she gave Jace a quick smile and departed with her precious bundle.

It would be interesting to receive the contents of her Father's office. Who knew she might after all these years finally get to know him.

So, here he was now. He really did feel as if he was the chairman of Xianthos, he had succeeded the old chairman to his office. Although that was a rather old way of looking at things, he guessed that somewhere up there, Stewart Devonshire was probably laughing at the situation. Who would have thought it, years ago he had been a struggling publisher, taken over by the Xianthos Corporation, now here he was heading it! What a life it was.

"Oh damn, forgot to tell her about the new acquisition. Never mind she'll see it in the figures next month." He smiled as a knock on the door heralded Rita, who announced the arrival of the Manager of the Mailroom Department.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-five

Constantia smiled as she wheeled herself towards the blonde woman slowly looking over the photograph album her face wreathed in concentration.

"I see you find the family interesting?" The older woman asked her niece's partner.

Jace looked up her expression one of pleasure as she saw Catherine's Aunt wheel herself forwards to the small bistro table.

"Yes, to be honest I never thought I would ever see any photo's other than the two that Catherine has on her desk at home. It is a wonderful reminder, I always think of people and events in our life that although might no longer be here physically, are still a very clear memory."

"You sound very philosophical Jace." Constantia glanced at the page the younger woman was looking at. The smiling face of her father and his two daughters starred out at her, she recalled the day that photo was taken. It was one of her favourites. Elena had been five years old, she had been ten, and it had been particularly happy day fishing.

"No, not really. It's just how I think of photo's, they trigger memories and are a way of never forgetting the past or our loved ones." Jace smiled as she realised that Constantia was more interested in the page she was looking at than the conversation. The book had been well used each page had a much worn appearance.

"I agree with you there my dear. I think the same way myself, I have many memories stored within the volumes here at the villa. They were my only link to family for many years." Constantia gave the blonde a wry smile.

Jace nodded her head at the comment; Catherine's Aunt now had a real family to bring her memories too. "Your father was a handsome man, how did he die?"

Constantia settled back in her chair. Although it was now fifty years since the death of her father, it still caused her to feel unsettled at the situation. "He fell to his death from the mountain a mile outside of town. They said it was an accident."

"You sound doubtful, why?" Jace was intrigued at the caution at the older woman's words and her faraway expression.

"Oh nothing my dear, just an old woman's fanciful thoughts." Constantia turned the pages of the photo album.

Jace gave her a discreet glance, and then turned to the photo displayed. "You didn't show this particular book the day we went over the photo's with the children and Catherine."

"No, I decided that the family probably wanted to see Catherine as a child and later as a teenager. These old relics are my memories, who wants to see an old woman's past?" Constantia shrugged her frail shoulders, laughing softly.

"I do." Jace placed a gentle hand on top of the frail larger hand now settled on the table.

"Then Jace you and I will share a few of my old memories together, thank you." Constantia gave Jace a smile that brought a catch to her breath as she saw Catherine in that smile. It was so like one her partner would give when she was pleased about something, which touched her emotionally.

"No. Thank you Constantia, I want to share all of Catherine's background and this belongs to her too, her ancestors." Jace went back to the beginning of the book, pointing to a yellowed picture of a couple laughing at each other obviously in love.

"Who is that Constantia, they look very happy." Jace asked eagerly.

"They were my grandparents on my Mother's side, the next one is my Father's parentsÖ." Constantia began her explanation enthusiastically.

~ ~ ~

"Do we have to go home tomorrow Catherine?" Lisa asked as she ran over to the tall woman who was stooping over the pushchair strapping Elena inside, after their visit to the local park.

"Yes we do! Don't you want to go home to see Grace, Grandma Faith and what about Rio?" Catherine had to smile at the comment, she herself felt very relaxed here, after a month of doing nothing but become totally immersed in family life.

"Oh but I like it here. I love the beach, sea, the park and theÖ" Lisa stopped as Catherine held up her hand to signal a slow down of the exaltation of the place.

"I know you do Princess but you need to go back to school, what about your pony? He will be missing you, not to mention your friends too." Catherine had secured her younger daughter in her pushchair smiling as she brushed away a lock of dark hair as the sleepy green eyes blinked at her.

"Do I have to?" Lisa exclaimed, placing her hands on her hips in protest at the horrible thought. Maybe if they lived here she would not have to go to school.

"You don't want to see the pony or your friends?" Catherine knew exactly what Lisa did not want, teasing her, especially as she had taken on the wounded stance. Her eldest daughter was certainly going to be one damn fine actress if she ever decided to go that way; she had the prima donna characteristics down pat.

"No! No Catherine you are silly I want to see everyone at home, but school really!" What a precocious child she was, adorable though.

"Oh, I can see that point of view Princess. Do you think if you stayed here that you wouldn't go to school?" Catherine held out her hand for the smaller one of Lisa's to hold. As they sauntered out of the park, Elena now sleeping soundly as they did so.

"I haven't seen anyone go to school." Lisa explained glancing around the small cobbled street, unable to identify what she would consider a school.

"I'm sorry Lisa but they have schools and you would have to go. I could not allow you to get behind in your education, now could I? I somehow think you might be upset when you get older." They walked towards the taxi rank for their ride home. Jace had offered to accompany them to the park but Catherine had decided that her partner could do with a short break. Jake was on his last fishing trip with Lukas. It irked her in times such as this that she wasn't able to drive anymore, but at least she could see partially and that was better than having nothing at all. She was at least able to take both of her daughters out without assistance.

"I couldn't go to a Greek school Catherine." Lisa stated as they reached the rank, waiting for one of the drivers to finish their discussions and take them back to the villa.

"You couldn't, why?" Catherine turned inquisitive eyes to Lisa who looked at her seriously and bright intelligent eyes gave her an exasperated glance.

"Because I can't speak Greek that's why Catherine!" Lisa exclaimed as if that was clear to anyone.

"Yes, true but you could learn. A challenge perhaps?" One of the taxi drivers sauntered over lazily pointing to his car. Un-strapping Elena from her restraints, she placed the child against her shoulder, passing over the folding pushchair to the driver to stow in the boot of the vehicle.

Lisa was not sure if Catherine meant it, giving her a perplexed look as she settled into the back seat, the worn leather of the seat hot from the morning sun.

The driver started the engine and asked where they wanted to go. "Villa Xianthos." Catherine told him, his gaze interested through the driving mirror.

"I think I miss my friend's more now, so it is a good idea we are going home tomorrow." Lisa finally stated and sat back in her seat.

Catherine turned to give the child a wide grin. "Thought you might prefer that." Kissing the top of the dark head, the child oblivious to the conversation going on around her?

ëI wonder how Jace has enjoyed her couple of hours of freedom? Would not surprise me if she has had the beach area all to herself.' That thought alone brought a momentary wolfish grin to her lips as she contemplated the very idea.

~ ~ ~

Jason sat opposite his wife, smiled as Lucy joined them for the meal Stephanie prepared before she left for the evening.

"Dad, can I talk to you?" Lucy slid down thankfully into the luxury of the leather sofa. Her post at the mailroom was not only menial and beneath her intelligence but hard work too!

Alison smiled; she had seen the rather sullen look on her daughter's face several times in the last three weeks. Never more so than the day Jason had told her the post she was being offered the morning she travelled to the workplace with him that first day.

"Yep go ahead." Jason had heard from the manager of the department, he had been told to make sure that Lucy knew what the meaning of hard work was. The rumours that had skirted his office told him the man had taken his word as law.

"Can't I work someplace else but the mailroom?" Blue eyes matching his own pleaded with him.

"You're only qualified for the mailroom Lucy." Jason calmly affirmed.

"Oh please Dad, what about one of the press offices or the computer department. Perhaps even as an Assistant to your PA? I'm better than a Mailroom Clerk!" Lucy expounded, annoyed with her father and his lack of understanding.

"Mom, tell him for me please!" Alison shook her head.

"Don't bring me into this Lucy it was your choice to leave college and you accepted your Father's trial at the company." Picking up her letter that she had received from Faith that morning.

"What qualifications have you for any of the posts in those departments Lucy? If I arrange an interview with the personnel head, what have you to show that you are intelligent enough to be considered?" Jason again reminded her of her lack of educational qualifications.

"Come on Dad what qualifications have you got?" Lucy returned petulantly. Alison looked up at her daughter in dismay that was the comment from a spoilt child, she had hoped they had brought their children up better than that.

Jason stood up; although he was not a tall man his stance gave Lucy the impression that he was a giant of a man, having made him angry from the set of his jaw.

"Young lady, when you have experienced even half of what I did at your age, then you mightÖ and I say might, just be allowed to ask how I managed to get my school diploma." His voice rasped out as he looked down at her with a penetrating gaze.

"I bet Ms. perfect Catherine Devonshire, didn't have to start at the bottom." Lucy countered knowing she had overstepped the mark with her father.

"True, but then she had more common sense than you have and she listened to her Father about an education." Jason recalled the conversation they had at Grace and Colin Montgomery's wedding. Catherine had told him about her Father's insistence that she remain in education, admittedly he had threatened to cut her allowance but she had still received an honours degree.

"Dad, that woman hasn't listened to anyone EVER!" Lucy burst out annoyed at her Father but more her position at the company her Father headed, and that belonged to her sister's ëgood friend'.  Even in the company restaurant, people who wanted to get to know her had initially surrounded her. When she mentioned that she worked in the mailroom, also that she really did not give a damn about the owner or even talked to her. Suddenly all the so called would be friends, disappeared, except for one.

Jason smiled at his youngest child giving her a shake of the head. "I think you might benefit from a visit of your sister if you think that Lucy. Trust me she does listen to people, even when you think differently."

"If you two are quite finished I suspect dinner will be ready, I know Stephanie is rather meticulous with her timing of dinner." Alison interceded; thankfully Catherine's New York housekeeper was just that.

"Right with you Ali, Lucy are you joining us for dinner or would that be beneath you to have dinner with your parents too?" Jason retorted to the sullen young woman, who glared at him at the words.

"I always eat dinner with you!" Lucy exclaimed petulantly.

"Ah, of course you do. Just thought I'd check, but then again you are waited on hand and foot so I guess that would fit your criteria, right?" Alison wanted to snicker but instead preceded her husband and daughter to the dinning area.

"Dad that's a mean thing to say! Are you implying I'm a snob?" Lucy cried out offended at the comment.

"If the shoe fits." Jason replied leaving the room to join his wife.

Lucy starred after his retreating back mulling over his comment. Was her father right? Was she a snob? Something she had called Catherine Devonshire on her first visit to see her sister in New Zealand.

Lot's of thoughts careered in her head; she was not sure what to make of it all. Perhaps she should go back to college and get her degree? What the hell, that would show them all! Then there was Francesca. The only friend she had made here, who also appeared genuinely to enjoy her company. She would talk with her later as they both chatted on the same site on the net this evening.

Pulling herself out of the sofa she walked quickly towards the dinning area, she really must apologise to her Dad.  He did not deserve her objectionable behaviour and truth be told her Dad was a cool guy for one so old.
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-six

"It runs in the family Grace." Faith explained to her Daughter, who had minutes earlier told her that she was having a baby girl.

"Oh, never realised it. On both sides, yours and Dad's?" Grace asked her mother, as she drank the milk she had requested, which Judy had happily obliged.

"Well, perhaps not your? Father's they tended towards one of each, but certainly on my family line." Faith was pleased that Grace was having a girl. Yes, a boy would have been equally welcome but she was more familiar with the requirements of the female side than the male.

"Colin's pleased." Grace spoke softly; she had been worried at first by her husband's reaction to the news that they were having a girl. He had been so silent; perhaps he really had wanted a boy!

"I'll bet that young man was over the moon. Although if she turns out anything like you Grace, he's going to have his work cut out for him." Her mother grinned to take away any sting in the words that might be misinterpreted.

Grace chuckled; yes she had not been the easiest child to bring up on reflection. "Yes he was."

Her mind drifted to the arrival home after a silent drive back from her visit with the doctor.

"I thought I'd go and give my Mother the happy news." Grace said quietly looking intently at her husband's face for any sign that he was unhappy. There was not any expression at all, just a blank really.

"Good idea." Colin agreed absently as he helped her out of the vehicle. Now five months pregnant, he seemed to do that more often.

Grace allowed him to help her down from the steep step of the Land Rover.

"I'll go check on how things are going, I'll see you at dinner Grace. Don't forget to take a nap this afternoon, okay." He looked towards the paddock where foals were nuzzling their mothers.

"Colin?" Grace had watched his expression change to a faraway expression.

Turning her husband looked at her expectantly. "Yes Grace, do you need me to do something?"

Grace smiled at him, moving closer so that she could put out a hand and stroke the beginning of his early stubble on his chin. "I love you!"

Colin smiled as he closed the gap between them capturing the hand that caressed his chin, as he put the fingers to his lips. "I love you too Grace."

"Can I ask you something?" A tentative question, as she wasn't sure if she should even mention her doubts.

"Anything, are you all right?" Colin asked anxiously.

"Darling it isn't me, it's you!" Grace laughed softly as she felt the butterflies in her stomach at his caress.

"Me? Me, I don't understand?" The man asked flustered by her regard, it was a mixture of question, warmth and love. He would do anything for her, anything!

"When they told us the baby was going to be a girl, you kinda went quiet. I know you said you didn't mind if it was a girl or boy, but Colin did you really want a son?" Grace rushed out her eyes blinked back the tears. Damn! Being pregnant did strange things to your hormones.

Colin looked at her with an astonished expression his eyes filled with tenderness. "Grace, oh Grace I think it's wonderful. There are no words to express what I feel therefore, I could not. I'm sorry darling, really sorry for making you think I'm unhappy."

Grace felt the tears trail down her cheeks she couldn't help it and they now flooded her face at his confession for he was so sincere.
"I justÖI guessÖOh Colin we are going to have a baby girl."

Colin pulled Grace closer and kissed the top of her head tenderly holding her in an understanding embrace. "Grace, when they said it was a girl. The baby was very real, no longer just a word. She was Georgina. Our baby was real Grace, it was wonderful!"

Grace hugged her husband, hearing the inflections of emotion that he had held in check. ëDamn, men for trying to be soÖso unperturbed.'

"Yes, yes it is wonderful." Releasing her hold on him so that they could share a kiss that kept them both happy, at least for now.

Smiling Grace contentedly listened to her Mother and Judy as she drank her milk.

Now her Mother was talking about knitting garments for the baby, at least now! They could knit with pink.

~ ~ ~

"I want to thank you Aunt for your hospitality." Catherine sincerely thanked Constantia. Lukas was loading the Jeep with their belongings and the children had decided to help him, even Elena!

"Catherine no thanks are necessary, I have loved every minute of your families company. I also owe a debt of gratitude to Jace in our hour of need here at the villa. I thank you and Jace from the bottom of my heart." Constantia smiled up at the countenance of her niece.

"Yes, Jace appears to have the ability to save the women of Xianthos doesn't she?" Catherine smiled softly as she watched Jace pick up Elena away from danger as their daughter had started to crawl under the vehicle.

"Yes she does." Constantia swung her gaze to where her niece obviously had her attention.

"I think Lukas is almost done." Catherine saw the final case stowed away in the back of the vehicle.

The door opened and Sarah walked in to stand beside Constantia. "It is a lovely day to travel Catherine, when will you eventually arrive home?"

Catherine grinned at the woman who was now reasonably fit; her arm ached from time to time, although now generally she was out of bed. " Yes it certainly is Sarah, I'm pleased really wouldn't want to have to contend with sea sick children. We will arrive home in three days, we are having a short stop over in Hong Kong, should be interesting for Jace and the elder children."

"You will not leave it so long before you visit again will you Catherine?" Sarah asked as she put a hand on Consty's shoulder in support. She knew that Consty would never ask that question, even if she wanted to.

"I hardly think I can keep the rest of the family away Sarah." Catherine chuckled, and then turned her ice blue gaze to the contented one of her Aunt. She knew that Sarah had asked the question that neither she nor her Aunt would voice. They just had not reached that particular comfort zone yet, although who knew what the future might bring.

The door opened again this time Jace, the children and Lukas all trooped inside the room. A chorus of ëwe are ready to go' heralded their entrance.

"Guess that's my cue" Catherine laughed as Lisa ran into her hugging her waist.

"Well, I wish you all a very safe and wonderful journey. Would youÖthat isÖ." Constantia trailed off as she looked down at her hands on her lap.

Sarah did not know what to do next, as she squeezed Consty's shoulder in comfort. Jace walked over to Catherine with Elena in her arms struggling as they neared her tall playmate.

Jace looked up into quizzical ice blue eyes; Catherine was not sure what was required of her. Emerald green eyes caught hers and the message that they conveyed, made her clear her throat a fraction.

"I'll call you Aunt when we get to Hong Kong and then home." Catherine spoke softly and was rewarded by a gentle smile that crossed Jace's lips. Guess she got it right again!

Elena was deposited gently into her arms as Jace went over to Catherine's Aunt.

"It has been a pleasure Constantia, thank you for putting up with my family. Especially the tall blue eyed one." Jace whispered into the older woman's ear as she kissed her cheek.

"Anytime my dear, anytime at all." Constantia chuckled as she sent Jace a sparkling look of amusement.

Jace went over to Sarah kissing the older woman too, who beamed at her happily.

Then the children were ushered out each saying their goodbyes as they did so. Elena happily went to Lukas who was a favourite of the child.

That left Catherine with Constantia and Sarah.

Sarah approached Catherine, pecked her cheek and said goodbye, taking her leave of the room for the kitchen.

Catherine felt slightly uncomfortable as she linked her hand together nervously, why had Jace left her alone with this goodbye.

"Well, I guess it's time to go Aunt." Catherine spoke quietly as she walked the few paces to the wheelchair.

"Yes, yes it is Catherine." Constantia could not stop the tears welling up in her eyes; this was her only sister's child. Her last close living relative and yet they were so estranged still.

Awkwardly Catherine bent down placing a quick kiss on her Aunt's velvety cheek. She hated goodbyes! About to move away, frail fingers captured her face, subjecting her to an intensity of stare that she had never experienced before.

"God's speed to you Catherine and your family. May all your problems be little ones." Constantia kissed her surprised niece's cheek.

"I'll second that!" Catherine self-consciously moved away from her Aunt and the emotional trauma of the situation.

"We will see each other again soon Constantia, goodbye." Catherine said softly as she left the room to follow her family.

"That is my hope Catherine, if not in this lifetime, certainly another one to come." Constantia whispered into the now empty room save for herself. Wheeling her chair closer to the balcony, to watch happily and wave off her family on their journey.

As Catherine entered the vehicle the engine roared, and Sarah entered into room and made for the balcony in enough time to wave off the family with her friend.

Sarah looked at the tears that had marked her friend's cheeks; she knew that Consty would miss the family atmosphere. It had brought her friend alive in ways she hadn't seen for years, what a pity they were so far away.

"Consty, at Christmas why don't we visit the family for the celebrations?" Sarah innocently asked.

Constantia was upset that Catherine and her family were leaving, why did people leave you alone! Then the familiar voice of her friend broke through her melancholy thoughts making her realise how foolish she was. Sarah had never left had she, no Sarah was here to stay, that thought alone made her feel happy inside. What more could she want in this life?

"I think that is a very good idea Sarah, we will make it the same time that Lukas leaves us for the mainland and his own destiny." Constantia smiled up at her friend, her tears now held in check.

"Yes, good idea. Now I think we both could do with a nice cup of tea, what do you think Consty?" Sarah had already moved towards the door, knowing the answer without the words.

"A splendid idea Sarah, what better to wish our family a good journey than one of your special brews." Constantia smiled warmly at her friend turning away from the balcony as Sarah left her.

ëYes, Christmas with the family was a good idea and she would ensure that she was well enough for the trip. It was something to look forward too. Adam would have to wait a little longer for her to join him.'

~ ~ ~

Jace had checked on the children, Elena was sleeping, which had been predictable. Lisa was with Jake on the deck; the young man having volunteered to make sure Lisa came to no harm.

Now walking back to her partner she smiled at the people who she traded glances with as she passed them, moving as swiftly as possible to the where Catherine sat.

Watching her for a few minutes, she saw her partner concentrating on a magazine but not really. Pre-occupied was perhaps the better term, her eyes might be fixed on the print but her attention certainly wasn't.

"Penny for them?"

Catherine glanced up, trying to break away from her concentration of the feelings she was struggling with at the words Constantia had said when she left.

"Not worth even that Jace." She smiled, as Jace sat down beside her. She immediately picked up her hand, tracing the lines of the palm thoughtfully.

"What happened?" Jace whispered.

Catherine turned to Jace and smiled wryly. "Can't keep anything from you can I?"

"Would you even want to?" Jace smiled back warmly as she clasped the hand that held hers in understanding.

"No, no I wouldn't." Catherine wanted to kiss Jace but it wasn't an appropriate place as she glanced around at the people on the ferry with them.

"My Aunt mentioned all our problems being little ones."

Jace looked at her puzzled her expression compassionate waiting for her to go on with her explanation.

"Just amused me really."

"Amused you? Well, I hope that we now only ever have small problems to contend with in the future. Between you and I Catherine, I think we have both had enough big problems, don't you?"

"Yes, I agree Jace butÖ" Catherine trailed off unsure what to say next.

"But?" Jace huskily asked, for some reason her partner's expression held something that made her catch her breath.

"I was thinking, maybe she was right. On the little problem that is, it could be little, as in a baby." Catherine said quickly as she bent her head away from her partner.

Jace gasped at the words, it had seemed like forever when they had talked about having another baby. Here after all that had happened to them once more, it was like the miracle of reality taking hold all over again.

"I love you Catherine." Jace could not think what else to say, she knew what she wanted to do but that was not appropriate now.

"I love you too, my love." Catherine smiled warmly at the slight flush on her face.

"Thank you." Jace finally whispered caught in a gaze filled with love.

"Oh my darling it is I who should thank you. I do, oh yes I do every single minute of the day, since I met you." Catherine grinned at the startled profile of her partner.

"That's all I need to know Catherine." Jace turned quickly as she placed a discreet kiss on her cheek, bringing a broad smile to her partner's face.

"I guess we talk about this in detail later?" Catherine held the smaller hand in her grasp a little tighter.

"Oh most certainly we do, now that YOU have mentioned it." Jace chuckled, settling back in the seat. Her gaze resting on the sleeping features of Elena, yes it would be good to have another baby around the house, definitely wonderful!
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-seven

"The bitch won't talk?" Catherine sharply returned, as she glanced around the remodelled study. Her attention had been partially on the conversation and the changes in the room completed recently.

"No, I'm sorry Catherine she will not. Unfortunately, that isn't the worse of it though. Rosnova has also lodged a complaint against her arrest on the grounds that it was unlawful." Serena Dusterly had agreed to apprise Catherine Devonshire of the current problems in the case of her daughter's kidnapper. Now three months later it had proved impossible to make the woman talk, she was playing a few tricky legal moves of her own.

"That won't stick! We played it by the book, didn't we?" Catherine hesitated slightly. Knowing that she had been fuelled by rage at the time, and had not exactly been thinking straight making it hard for her to judge if they had or hadn't played it by the book.

Serena considered the statement. Had they followed the book? At the time she was sure, they had. Months later she was still sure on the subject. "I think you will find that someone who has taken a child with force, also taken great lengths to ensure that child isn't found. Not to mention the force she used to try to stop us. I can't see any court in the land not convicting her."

Catherine sighed heavily, she had considered this part of their lives a formality now, and the trial would be over quickly with the evidence against Rosnova. "Have they tried to cut a deal with her Dusterly?"

"Yes. Several times in fact. She doesn't appear to want to take any of the offers." Serena spoke quietly. It had been Devonshire's request that no deals be struck with Rosnova, which had been ignored by the police and the FBI with the urgent need to resolve the larger issues.

"I see." Catherine stood up, punched the intercom as she walked over to the patio window and starred at the paddock that was empty of any activity. The greenery and peace of the ranch had always been one of the prime reasons she had enjoyed living here.

"I know that wasn't what you requested in the early days. However, you have to understand that even with Rosnova off the street's, the real issues haven't been tackled, just delayed." Dusterly pointed out practically.

"The clarity of the situation hasn't quite defeated me Dusterly. Do you agree with the deals being offered?" Ice blue eyes scanned the drive for any sight of Jace. Her partner had been rather pre-occupied lately also a little withdrawn. She put that down to the fact that Lisa had finally cracked over her ordeal. For the past two months, Jace had been taking their Princess three times a week to see a child psychiatrist.

Her own aversion to being in the same room with a ëshrink', had given the responsibility to Jace, what a supportive parent she had turned out to be. Then there had been the week that her partner had left for the States to help with a family problem associated with Lucy. It hadn't been prudent for her to go too, Lucy had a distinct dislike of her! Unfortunately, it didn't appear to go away, no matter how hard she tried to be nice to Jace's younger sibling.

Jace had returned from that trip seven or eight weeks ago and Lucy had returned to college. She hadn't asked for details but from what her partner implied her sister had wanted to try out her wings on her own, a little early. Christmas was now around the corner and all the family but Lucy were going to attend. The young woman had her own life and values; there was a standing invitation though. Perhaps, she would come round to the idea.

"Catherine did you hear what I said?" Serena Dusterly asked impatiently, the woman was obviously in a world of her own. Nothing appeared to be sinking in at least it seemed that way.

"I'm sorry Dusterly, no I didn't. Would you care to repeat it, I'll endeavour to pay attention this time around." Catherine apologised, genuinely sorry she had ignored the other woman.

"I said I didn't agree with all the terms, the first deal offered was acceptable, if you can call any deal acceptable. The second was a half way house and the thirdÖfrankly she'd walk!" Serena exclaimed, her own annoyance at the situation sparked for the first time. Over the last few months she had gained her total equilibrium, now totally in control, most people who met her wondered if she ever smiled or looked anything other than serious.

"Walk!" Catherine shouted, the sound echoed in the sparsely furnished study. "You telling me that scum will be set free?"

Serena could hear the total horror that statement brought out in the other woman. How could you prepare someone who had suffered in the hands of such a person, to hear that the criminal would get away with the crime? "There is that possibility, although she didn't accept the deal."

"Why? What does she want a million dollars as a thank you too!" Catherine sank back down into the leather chair she refused to part with when they replaced most of the other study furniture.

Serena almost choked on the cynical laughter that caught in her throat, if only Catherine knew.

"Not exactly."

"Spare me the details for the moment Dusterly. How are you doing with the projects you've taken on?" Catherine was going to have words with an Influential State Governor, which would be her next call today.

Serena sighed with relief at the change of subject. "I've managed to contact all the parents who are interested in having their children home again. Most of the information they have for me is now taking up residence in my spare bedroom. It will take a while to correlate the information, then who knows Rosnova might crack, and we can find out more details, hopefully bringing them home again."

Catherine listened intently to the conversation; the woman on the other end of the line was genuinely enthused by the project. Although, without a significant lead to help her, it would fall by the wayside and those kids would remain lost souls. "You say the parents who want their children back. Are you telling me that some don't?"

Serena shook her head at the question; it had been a shock to her inwardly when some had declined her offer of help. "I think that some thought it would cost them money, or they simple couldn't afford them if they came home again. Many of the kids taken were from poor backgrounds. It's not a nice thought Catherine but a fact of life in this day and age."

Catherine pursed her lips, glancing around the room to the picture frames on her desk and the photo's of her family, all her family. She wouldn't care if she spent every penny she had in the retrieval of her family. "Did you tell them that it wouldn't cost them a cent?"

"Yes. I told them I had a generous benefactor who was prepared to pay all expenses." Serena acknowledged quietly, a special fund had been set up to cover all her expenses, and even establish an office with whatever staff she needed to continue the project indefinitely. The Warriorson fund was a godsend to the poor.

"I see, how many children have you on your files now?" Catherine heard a vehicle draw up to the house she moved swiftly back to the window, as she saw Jace step out of the Land Rover with Lisa climbing out the passenger side. The child ran into the house immediately, with Jace watching the child, a pensive expression on her face.

"Thirty, I've had to stop for the moment, I guess I need to take on help." Serena chuckled at her end of the line softly.

"Your call Dusterly. Will you keep me apprised of how the situation develops with Rosnova? Unfortunately I'm needed elsewhere, a looming domestic crisis shall we say." Catherine did not want to sound rude to the woman who had been instrumental in bringing Lisa back to them.

"I'll do that! Hope you resolve your domestic problem, goodbye." Serena ended the call; Catherine quickly pushed the intercom button to end the call at her end.

Now to see what was going on with Lisa, Jace had not looked very happy at all.

~ ~ ~

Constance smiled as she watched Clare cursing over some filing problem or other, her lover was quite endearing when she got mad and Clare was mad!

"Is there anything I can do?" Constance asked as she lounged against the doorway of her office.

Clare swore under her breath, ëWhy now, why did Constance have to come out of her office now?'

"No, no everything is under control." Clare muttered in the direction of her boss, smiling sweetly at her.

"You know you look cute when you're mad." Constance could not resist saying that, for Clare did look cute, but when didn't she.

"I'm not mad!" Clare exclaimed in agitation.

"Okay. What has you soÖhow shall I put thisÖ unimpressed with the filing system?"

"Absolutely nothing! Constance you asked for the report on the acquisition we purchased into three months ago, for some inexplicable reason it doesn't appear to be here." The younger woman proclaimed annoyed with herself.

Constance smiled warmly at her, and then shamefaced hung her head theatrically. "Ah, well you see it was like this Clare, I had it locked in my drawer, I found it half an hour ago. Had to take an international call, therefore it was impossible for me to tell you. Sorry!"

"You meanÖyou mean I've spent all this time looking for something that you had all the time?" Clare spluttered out.

"Yes." Constance replied, waiting to see if Clare would cross the line from professionalism to personal.

Clare inhaled a ragged breath, once more, smiling briefly at her boss. Inclining her head she went to her desk and sat down. "Fine. That's good; at least we know where it is. May I ask that in the future you let me file it for you in it's correct place?"

Constance grinned at the suggestion, "point taken Ms. Fallon, I will do as you suggest."

"Is there anything else I can do for you?"

"Actually yes there is. We have an invitation to Ms. Devonshire's home for Christmas and New Year, if we care to take up the invite. I just wondered if you could check my diary, ensuring we can do just that. Assuming of course you want to do that?" Constance smiled warmly at the surprised expression on Clare's face, pleased when her lover nodded her head at the question regarding the invitation.

Clare scrambled for the diary; locating it she glanced down the pages that indicated Constance's movements. "You only have two appointments and one of those is with your dentist. The other is with the other VP's in London, an informal get together but that was only tentative as it is every year."

"Okay then Clare, change my dentist appointment and I'll contact the other VP's and give my apologies for my absence. Mark holidays for the other days and Ms. Fallon, may I suggest that you find someone rather quickly to cover the day's you will be missing." Constance winked at her, as she went inside her office closing the door.

ëRita, yep Rita would cover for her, as Mr. Bardley would be gone too! After all, I covered for Rita for a month when she married two months ago. My god New Zealand, I'm going to New Zealand! Constance went around the world all the time, but I haven't ever left the US. God this is going to be an experience and with the owner too!'

Pushing the switch that would connect to Rita the chairman's PA, she wondered what it would be like.

~ ~ ~

Catherine silently entered the kitchen; Jace was alone in the room. Her partner had the look of one defeated in battle, which was not like Jace at all!

"How did it go love?" Catherine softly asked as she went over to stand inches from the woman she loved.

Jace looked up at the warm concerned features of her partner. "It went as well as can be expected. Doctor Tyrell says Lisa's doing quite well considering the trauma she went through."

Catherine knew her partner was holding out on her, having a good idea why too. Her aversion to psychiatrists wasn't exactly a secret; she had been quite verbal at the time it was mentioned.

 "Of course Lisa should see a doctor, I have no problem with that!"

"No you don't have a problem with Lisa going to the doctor, but you refuse to share the burden Catherine."

"Jace, please Jace it's not like that at all! I justÖwell frankly I think they're frauds."

"You do. How would you know, you've never experienced their help before?"

"I know, I never intend to either!"

"So, I take it that I go with Lisa to all the sessions?"

"Jace come on, you know me by now, I would only hinder the process."

"Catherine they are helping our daughter, they would have no reason to quiz you, if that's what you're frightened of?"

"Frightened? Me? Give me a break Jace of course not!"

"Okay have it your way."

Kneeling before the blonde she captured Jace's emerald eyes grasping her hands gently, her expression filled with concern.

"Tell me please darling?"

Jace clutched Catherine's hands instinctively unaware of the pressure that she was emitting.

"Lisa refused to talk to Doctor Tyrell. She saidÖwell she decided that it wasn't worth it." Jace failed miserably to explain adequately.

"It isn't worth it! How did she get that idea?" Catherine gave Jace a mystified expression.

Jace gave her a stare that indicated, ëreally you have no idea?'

Catherine saw the frown also the silent accusation, ëwhat had she done wrong now!' "What have I done now?" her tone hurt.

Jace gave a long-suffering expression, as her eyes dully gazed into the ice blue hurt ones of her partner. Catherine was little more than a child herself inside, taking slight criticism as a major catastrophe, "You haven't done anything! Although Lisa appears to have taken up your aversion to seeing the Doctor, her words afterwards indicated that clearly."

"My aversion, how does she know about that? I can assure you Jace that at no time have I ever talked in front of the child about my thoughts on the subject. In fact I've been very positive regarding the Doctor." Catherine cried out in reaction to the perception that she might be the problem.

"I know that Catherine, but I think she's perhaps eavesdropped on us by accident. I did ask if you would take her to the therapy session last week, you refused point blank making it very clear why." Jace explained, she was tired not just because of the problem with Lisa but her body was reacting unfavourably to something and she had a good idea what that was.

Looking surprised at the comment she mulled over what exactly could have been overheard, then it dawned on her the conversation she'd had with Jace and cheeks turned a subtle shade of pink. "I guess I owe you an apology Jace."

"No, don't apologise to me Catherine, what I need from you at the moment is support in this situation and not financial support either!" Jace retorted her voice weary.

Catherine heard the weariness in her partner also the pallor in her skin, could Jace be sickening from something? "Darling, how about I make you a nice hot drink then I'll see what I can do to salvage the situation with Lisa. When's the next session with the Doctor?"

The blonde smiled weakly at Catherine's immediate response to the problem. "I'd love a cappuccino if you know how to make one?"

Catherine saw the twinkle in the emerald eyes and felt a sense of relief that her partner was not mad at her. Also providing a little more animation and colour to her features, thank goodness. "Ah so you doubt my abilities in the kitchen do you my love?"

Jace gave a soft chuckle that made Catherine grin happily, seeing her partner happy was the mainstay of her life. Hating anything that prevented that happening.

"Catherine the first day I met you, you couldn't find your way around the kitchen. When have you had time to practise domesticity?" Jace was laughing openly now, as ice blue eyes warmly smiled back into hers.

Slowing levering herself away from Jace, Catherine captured her partner's lips in a tender kiss as she stood up erect making for the cappuccino machine. This had to be easy; everyone else made the beverage with ease.

"The next appointment for Lisa is Monday. With her current disposition Doctor Tyrell decided it might be better for her to have a week away from the sessions." Jace spoke quietly, as she watched fascinated the expressions that crossed her partner's face. Knowing that Catherine would not have a clue what to do with the machine, making tea was fine for her partner but the stainless steel monster that had been Grace's pride and joy was something else altogether.

"Okay, that gives me time to talk her around. I'm certain I can do that, how did the Doctor say she was doing otherwise?" Catherine's words held a preoccupied note to them as she considered what to do with the contraption before her.

"Well, except for today she's been making steady progress. Obviously, I do not go inside the consulting room with them, however until today she was more the out going child we knew before, less sullen and critical. Don't you think so?" Jace smiled as she saw the long tapering fingers of her partner skim over the controls and then randomly selected a button to press.

"Yes, yes I thought so myself. I was wondering how long these sessions had to continue." Catherine said absently as she selected what she thought was the correct button for the appliance.

"I wouldn't know, I'm sure that the Doctor will ensure that Lisa is going to be okay before he stops the sessions. He does have an excellent reputation in this field." Jace had to put a hand up to her mouth to stop a snicker as Catherine turned to her with a smug expression on her face.

"Well, that's the cappuccino set. I am sure if you think the good Doctor is the best. Then he will be Jace. As for me, I still think theyÖ." Jace help up her hand to silence Catherine and no doubt a scathing comment as the woman looked at her in puzzlement.

"Little pitchers have big ears Darling." Jace took the sting out of her words with a bright smile, as Catherine conceded her error of judgement once more.

"I'm going to have to have you educate me in keeping silent about certain things Jace." Catherine heard a strange noise coming from the machine behind her. Glancing around to the machine Jace spoke, her voiced filled with laughter.

"I think it isn't just little pitchers you have to have an education in Catherine. It's also putting water in the reservoir before you switch an appliance on." Walking over to the taller woman she stopped the machine, opened the vent to let out the steam that was building, and then glanced up into embarrassed blue eyes.

"I guess I'm not domesticated just yet Jace." Catherine admitted ruefully.

Reaching up so that she could kiss the lips that had a hurt look to them. The blonde pull unresistingly into a tight embrace as the kiss deepened until both realised that they would very soon forget that they were in the kitchen, and anyone could walk in on them.

"I think I'll go and talk with Lisa. Would you make the cappuccino Jace?" Catherine reluctantly pulled herself from the embrace.

"Yes of course I will, Grace would never forgive me if you had destroyed that little monster. When she has the baby I know it will be one of the first drinks that she will crave." Jace smiled engagingly as her partner moved towards the door to the hallway and her talk with their eldest daughter.

"Oh of course, she's lost the taste for her favourite tipple. Well, hopefully at Christmas she can indulge again, unless the baby is late and that isn't out of the question as it's her first." Catherine said as she opened the door to leave the room.

"True, so go talk with Lisa. The both of you come back for refreshments soon. Good luck." Jace added as a final thought, Lisa had been totally un-communicative on the journey home from town.

"Anything for you Jace." Catherine smiled leaving the room.

Jace watched the door swing shut pondering that last remark. For without a doubt Catherine would give her anything!
 
 

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-eight

James Thompson smiled for no reason other than the fact that he was happy, the news he'd had this morning had made his day, no his week. Hell, maybe even his year!

On Christmas Eve Demitri Artillius would arrive for the holiday season and wouldn't need to leave until New Years day. Now that was some good news, although he would have to forego Catherine and Jace's family invitation to the ranch for the holidays. He was sure they would understand.

He and Demitri had remained in contact over the intervening months; the opportunity had arisen for the Greek Police Captain to take some much-needed time off, where better than LA.

James scanned the lot below his office, considering himself very lucky, very lucky indeed. It would have been so easy to live a half-life existing on the memories of Paul and their time together. Paul he knew wouldn't have wanted that for him, neither would James had the table been turned, perhaps sometimes good things came out of tragedy. Both he and Demitri had suffered personal losses in their loved ones; perhaps between them they could build a bridge to happiness. He was now willing to find out with the only person he had been remotely interested in since Paul's death. Demitri would be here in his city in a little over a week's time.

This had turned out to be some year, he hoped that the next would be a little less harrowing, though he doubted uneventful being affiliated with Jace and Catherine.

The telephone call he was expecting from Europe would set the way clear for his documentary series. If he could persuade Catherine to talk with the guy he proposed as director, then all would be well. It was business after all!

His intercom buzzed.

"Your call from Europe Mr. Thompson, Mr. Adamson is on line one." His secretary told him efficiently.

James punched line one speaking clearly, ëPeter, long time no hearÖ."

~ ~ ~

Catherine rapped on the door to Lisa's bedroom waiting for the child to answer. It would have been so easy to knock and walk in, these days with the child you just never knew what mood she would be in. Walking on eggshells was an accurate description to sum it up.

"Come in." A small voice, barely audible allowed her entry.

Catherine fortunately had acute hearing as she listened for the response to her door knock. Opening the door she walked into the large airy room, this with Grace's eye for decoration and Lisa's own particular taste for her age looked pretty and welcoming.

"Hello Lisa, have you time for a chat?" Catherine walked over the multi-coloured carpet, reminding her of a rainbow, to sit on the edge of the bed where Lisa was sprawled out clutching her rag doll.

"Is it a long chat? Rag Doll wants her lunch." Lisa said suspiciously, her guardian rarely talked to them during the day, in the evening or on weekends sure but not during school times. Little realising that usually she was in school, therefore Catherine would be unable to talk with her.

"No. No it's not a long chat." Ice blue eyes crinkled at the corners as she heard the hesitation in her daughter's voice.

"Okay." Lisa announced importantly touching a point on the bedclothes next to her for Catherine to move closer.

Catherine smiled at the child, what a child she was too! "Jace tells me that you mentioned to her and Doctor Tyrell, you wouldn't need any more sessions with him. A waste of time I think you said, is that correct?"

Lisa looked up her blue eyes accusing. "Jace didn't have to tell you! That's not fair."

Catherine heard the hurt this time considering her words carefully before she replied. After all, it was her fault; or rather, her loose tongue that had sparked this present predicament.

"Perhaps it isn't, we care about you and if you're not happy then Jace and I aren't happy either. That's all we want Lisa for you not to feel bad inside, the Doctor is trying to help that is all."

Lisa's stare changed from accusing to uncertainty.

"It's a waste of time!" The child said petulantly, scowling at the tall woman perched on the side of the bed.

"I see. Will you tell me why?" Catherine asked quietly. Already sure, she knew what the answer to that one would be.

"You said so!" Lisa proclaimed, baiting Catherine to deny the words.

This time Catherine pushed back a lock of her raven hair that really needed a cut, something else to do before the visitors started to arrive on the ranch next week. "You heard me talking to Jace I presume?"

Lisa was not sure what to say Catherine might be mad with her if she admitted listening. However, she knew that she would be even worse if she lied to her. "I was coming for a drink in the kitchen, I couldn't help it!" Tears glistened on the girl's eyelashes.

Swiftly gentle arms enfolded the upset child holding her securely in a warm embrace. Placing a hand on the top of her hair stroking it soothingly, "hey Lisa, no problem. Bound to happen don't you think if we all live together?"

The tears that were on the surface now fell unchecked, soaking Catherine's pristine white cotton shirt. "I didn't mean to Catherine I really didn't."

"I know darling, I know. Do you think you will be alright Lisa, if you never see the Doctor again?" Her voice gentle and filled with warmth, wanting the child understand her concern.

Suddenly the child sobbed loudly turning tear-drenched eyes up towards concerned ice blue ones. "You didn't come for me Catherine, you didn't, why you didn't! That bad person made me have horrible dreams, really frightening ones."

Catherine was taken-aback by the emotional outburst, as well as the anger and fear that was held there. ëMy God it's my fault.' The thought sprang immediately into the forefront of her mind. "I was looking Lisa, I couldn't find you at first. I would never have left you with that person Lisa you have to believe me." Her own voice broke as she finished.

Lisa continued to cry inconsolably as Catherine held her tightly, whispering into her soft herb smelling red hair. ëWhat could she do now? All this time she had passed over the problem thinking it would go away as she'd always done with problems in her own life. This was different it was their child in pain and she needed help!'

"Lisa, how would it be if I came with you in the future to see the Doctor?" It was a tentative step and one she wasn't entirely sure Lisa would accept.

Lisa gulped back her sobs as she gazed up into the sincere expression on the face of her guardian. "You would come with me?"

"Absolutely. I think it is time I talked with the Doctor too. We could make it a double challenge for him, what do you say?" Catherine had seen the glimmer of interest in the comment; she didn't exactly relish the prospect, but what the hell!

"You're not a child though Catherine?" Lisa answered her puzzled that an adult, especially this adult might be frightened inside also.

"How about when I see the Doctor with you, I'm ten years old again, just for that hour?" Serious ice blue eyes captured the childishly intelligent blue ones of the child in her arms.

Suddenly a giggle erupted from the child as she thought about Catherine being ten years old; she really had to see that. "Okay."

There was a knock on the door as Jace tentatively popped her head around the door, "sorry to disturb you two, I have a snack waiting. Anyone want to join me?"

Lisa jumped up and out of Catherine's arms, almost toppling her over onto the floor. Picking up Rag Doll, she rushed towards the door smiling broadly, her cheeks tearstained, as she hugged Jace. The child whispering something into Jace's ear she left the two women to stare at each other for a few moments.

"Catherine, is Lisa saying what I think she's saying?" Jace asked quietly amazed with the comment from Lisa that her partner was going to see the Doctor with the child.

Catherine moved swiftly from the bed to where Jace stood, reaching out tenderly stroking her cheek, as she nodded her head to acknowledge the comment.

"It's time Jace. There is still a part of me that is ten years old and in pain. Perhaps Lisa and I together can cleanse the old and new wounds. It's worth a try, for our daughter's sake I'm willing to go that extra mile, although you might need to scrape me of the wall occasionally."

Jace captured the fingers that stoked her cheek as she placed her lips to the fingertips, a single tear slowly rolled down her cheek. "You won't regret it Darling, I promise you and I'll be here for you count on it."

Catherine smiled brightly at her partner as she hooked her arm around her shoulders leaving the room, in the hope of stopping the child devouring everything she found in the kitchen. "Yes, well I guess Doctor Tyrell is going to be quite amused if nothing else." Chuckling as they headed for the stairs and a much-needed hot drink to settle the rattled nerves all round.

~ ~ ~

Chapter Forty-nine

"She's gorgeous! Faith my dear you must be thrilled and what an unusual name, Georgina. Is it a family name by any chance?" Alison asked as she cradled the four-day-old baby close to her cooing, as Grandparents were apt to.

"Yes she is a beauty, so like Grace when she was a baby. Although if you try telling that to my eldest daughter she will just give you a rather long-suffering look. I must admit though that I think Colin is turning out to have more maternal instincts than Grace. He's so good with her and she smiles at him as soon as he picks her up or talks to her." Faith proudly stated as she watched her friend and Jace's mother smile indulgently at her, unable to answer the question regarding the name, because she wasn't sure if it was a family name on Colin's side.

"Are you sure it isn't wind, the smiling I mean." Both women laughed at the remark as they looked towards the opening door onto the decking where they were seated, sipping a long cold glass of lemonade and generally doting over the new addition to Destiny.

"Now Mom what are you two laughing at, poor Georgina having to listen to you two gossip." Jace grinned as she came over and peeked at the baby, all pink, smelling of fresh talc.

"I think she will be fine with us Jace, nothing like advice at an early age and it's certainly not gossip my dear daughter." Her mother chuckled softly throwing her daughter a warm smile.

"Well, it's certainly early, I'll give you that." Jace settled down next to her mother, grinning at Faith.

"Where is Grace?" Faith asked, surprised that she had left her daughter so long with her. That long being half an hour but having brought her home only twenty-four hours before, many first time mothers wouldn't let the babies out of their sight for a minute.

"Oh she's with Catherine, Constance and Clare. Something about a special cappuccino." Jace grinned; yeah that was going to be one special cappuccino Catherine was making it. The expression on Grace's face had been worth the lesson given to her partner a couple of days earlier on the art of making the beverage with Grace's steel monster.

"Oh. No matter that gives us more time with the baby. Where are the other children?" Faith expected to hear them around the house somewhere but it had been silent.

"They are with Dad, Lucy, her friend Francesca, Constantia and Sarah. Catherine gave the special Land Rover keys to Lucy this morning as she volunteered to take the children with her. Although I think she's taking the kids if she gets lost. Dad, Catherine's Aunt and her friend went along for the ride, Dad loves the countryside around here." Jace was happy her sister had finally agreed to come over for the holidays.

Their talk a couple of months earlier had been strained. All the problems had been aired from both sides, and at the end of it all, the jealousies had been vented making them both happier for it.

Catherine's suggestion that Lucy bring a friend along if she wanted now that they had the room, as the house had been renovated and completed. Had been in her mind a stroke of genius from her partner, sending the message immediately; surprisingly it had been accepted readily.

"Yes Jason does love wide open spaces and plenty of greenery. Faith is Georgina a family name?" Alison asked again then heard a deep voice, which certainly wasn't her friend's answer.

"No, not a family name but it has a special meaning to Grace, and me too." Colin had silently, and for a big man that was quite a gift, walked up to them and overheard the conversation.

All three women looked up at him, Jace nodded her head acknowledging how special the name was. Grace had told her and Catherine the night before the baby was born the reason for the name; it had brought a flood of unstoppable tears from her.

"Special, in what way Colin?" Faith asked softly she had been a little upset over the choice of name but they had been adamant, eventually she would get over the disappointment of it not being her mother's name.

Colin gazed down lovingly into the small pink face of his daughter. Holding out a hand as the tiny fist clutched at the blanket she was held in, as he softly crooned her name. The baby seemed to automatically grasp the large finger that she had been given to anchor upon. "Someone who Grace knew died recently it's in his memory."

"My goodness Faith you are right, she's smiling." Alison exclaimed softly and smiled at the others, as the child appeared to be transfixed on her Daddy.

"Told you so. When Grace comes she'll scream the house down." Faith replied, as she saw her daughter coming towards them.

"Oh Mother really, anyone would think my Daughter doesn't like me." Grace proclaimed smiling as she looked at the sight of her husband and new baby.

"Oh, she likes you Grace. Especially when you feed her." Grace walked closer to the increasing numbers around the baby.

"My Daughter has taste Mother, she knows who will look after her and she's already worked out that twisting Daddy round her little finger might be a good ploy for the future." Grace smiled as Colin grinned at her as they exchanged tender glances.

"Grace, where is Catherine?" Jace asked wondering why she hadn't come onto the porch with Grace.

"She went to the study with her friend's from New York. Said she would be with us presently."

"Oh no! I hope she isn't talking business." Jace said, vacating the chair and went inside the house to check.

~ ~ ~

Lucy had manoeuvred the large vehicle up the steep incline that Jake had said was a place called Cutters Ridge, having a beautiful view over the landscape. Not only that, Catherine had whispered to him that if they had a chance to take her Aunt there, she must see where the family burial plot was.

"I hope this is worth it?" Lucy asked as she pressed the gas for more power as they reached the summit.

"It is, it is." Lisa happily responded she began to unclasp Elena from her restraints as the vehicle stopped. Rio had jumped in the back of the vehicle as they had started up, and he was now wagging his tail enthusiastically waiting to be let out.

Ten minutes later they had all vacated the vehicle and were looking out over the beautiful scenery below them to the horizon, it was a lovely summer day with the sun hot but not oppressive.

"Wow, certainly beats the buildings in New York." Francesca said with pleasure as she stood next to her friend.

"Glad you like it, I wasn't sure if this was your kind of vacation?" Lucy asked her quietly, they were a few yards from the others at a different vantage point.

Francesca turned to her friend smiling warmly. "Lucy, this is a wonderful opportunity for me to see a part of the world I probably never would have. Thank you for inviting me."

Lucy grinned as she heard the sincerity in the tone of her friend's voice. "Thanks for coming Fran."

Francesca smiled back at her friend as they went over to see what the others were doing.

"Granddad can you help me push the wheelchair behind the outcropping. Catherine said that Aunt Constantia would want to see what's there." Jake asked his grandfather, not waiting for an answer, he went over to the wheelchair, placing his hands on the chair

"No problem son, lead the way. If you want my help I'll be right with you." Jason smiled at the boy following with Sarah by his side. Lisa was holding Elena's hand as they moved forward faster than the rest.

"What is behind the outcrop Jake?" Constantia asked puzzled that her niece had made a point with the boy to show her something.

"You will see Aunt Constantia, you will see." The boy grinned but kept the mystery to himself, even Lisa had been bribed to secrecy. His sister was apt to let slip at the most inappropriate times and he wanted this to be a surprise.

As they turned the corner, all eyes went to the beautiful waterfall that cascaded down the mountainside, the whole area looked like something out of a fantasy story. They made their way towards the family plot, which held Adam and Lucas's graves.

As they neared the small gate that led into the burial area, Elena was released, Lisa and Rio bounded after her playfully.

"Will they be okay?" Lucy asked anxiously, that would be the end for her, if anything happened to any of the children.

"Let them be Lucy or better still go watch over them and relax." Jason grinned at his daughter indulgently these days, she had gone from aggressive to deadly serious, and too serious he often thought.

"Okay Dad I will." She went over to sit on the bench and Francesca followed her.

"Aunt Consa, Catherine thought you might want to see where her husband and son are buried, she said it would be important to you." Jake supplied hoping she didn't mind him using the short name that Lisa came up with because she couldn't remember the name; it was catching on with Elena too. He didn't really understand the message completely, but Catherine had been adamant that her Aunt would want to see the area.

Jason and Sarah looked at the wheelchair bound woman, and saw the tears being held back at the words.

"Why not let Jake take you Consty." Sarah said softly, she herself wanted to be with her friend but felt that perhaps this time Consty should be alone without her.

Constantia blinked back the tears but they fell regardless and she gave a wry smile. "How about you take me Sarah, we can share this together. If you don't mind that is?"

Sarah beamed at the suggestion. "Why would I mind? I will be honoured to accompany you." Taking the handles of the chair pushing it forward to their goal.

Jason looked at the scene; something was going on here that he certainly didn't understand. Although, he was sure it would be explained to him at some stage if others saw fit. "Jake, how about we go skim stones in that stream, then you can tell me how the soccer is going."

Jake laughed at the thought of skimming stones in such a shallow, small stream, but it was his Granddad and you had to indulge the older people at times. "Okay, I'm the Captain of the team and Catherine is going to let me travel to England with some of my friend's. We will be going on a football-training course and to see Manchester United play. What do you think of that Granddad?" The boy's excitement building as he quickly glossed over the things happening in his life.

"Sounds good to me, so who are Manchester United?" Jason smiled as they set off towards the stream.

~ ~ ~

Jace entered the study with a rap on the door that had been answered with a sharp enter.

Constance turned to see who entered the room smiling at her; Catherine and Clare were engrossed in something on the desk.

"We can't accept this Catherine, it was nothing really." Clare stated as she pushed the documents on the table back towards the woman who had passed them her way.

"I insist, Clare." Catherine remarked mildly a smile hovering over her lips.

"What's going on?" Jace whispered to Constance who was watching the exchange between the other two in the room with amusement.

"Oh nothing much." Constance replied her voice filled with laughter.

"Nothing much? Doesn't appear that way to me. I was just wondering what had happened to the three of you." Jace said quietly, as she watched fascinated the stand off between Catherine and Clare continuing.

"Well, I know the both of them, and I think Clare might win out here." Constance knew the tenacity of her lover.

Jace was surprised at the comment, as her own pride in Catherine and her winning the situation whatever it was, coming to the foreground. "I know Catherine very well too, believe me I haven't seen her lose anything yet."

Constance chuckled, the sound echoed in the study as Catherine and Clare both turned to look at them. "Jace, sorry Darling I didn't know you were in the study."

Jace gave her partner a tender look, giving a warm smile to Clare who was grinning at her. "No problem, can a girl ask what the situation is here?"

Catherine laughed, beckoning Jace over to her side of the desk. "I've just been pointing out to Clare the merits of accepting this document."

Jace walked over and was pulled gently into the crook of Catherine's right side; she felt safe and loved as her partner welcomed her into her arms. "What's in the document?"

Clare interceded at the question. "Jace, Catherine has given us a ten percent holding in Xianthos!"

ëThat's good, right?' Jace pondered the remark.

"Isn't that good?" Jace watched Clare shake her head, and was about to state her case when Constance hooked her arm around the young woman's waist and whispered into her ear.

"Yes, it's very good butÖ" she trailed off wondering why she was protesting and not jumping for joy.

"But?" Jace asked a twinkle in her eye, so this had been Catherine's gift to them for helping un-selfishly in finding Lisa, and putting their own lives at risk.

"It's far to generous, we didn't need to be rewarded. Having Lisa back home with you was reward enough." Clare said, suddenly realising she was losing this battle; those emerald eyes that were turned to her told her as much.

"Why not say thank you and leave it at that." Jace grinned and saw the resigned but happy look, replace the confrontational one.

"Thank you Catherine, Jace. Constance do you know what this means?" Clare turned excitedly to her lover.

"I think we will leave you two for now and go for a walk, catch up with you at dinner. Oh, would you be in the lounge, half an hour before dinner. We have a family tradition on Christmas Eve and I would like everyone to participate." Catherine smiled warmly at them as she clasped one of Jace's hands in hers and moved towards the door.

"No problem Catherine, we will be there. Have a wonderful walk." Constance replied as she pulled Clare towards the sofa to go over the document that would effectively make them very wealthy as of now! This was some stock option; no one else had any stake in the corporation that she knew of, at least until now.

"See you later, bye for now." Catherine and Jace left the room.

~ ~ ~

Lisa sank down on the grass at the feet of Lucy and her friend. Elena was tickling Rio's ears remarkably gently for one so young, sitting next to her.

"Are you our Aunt or our Great Aunt, like Aunt Consa?" Lisa looked up with a wide questioning blue gaze into Lucy's surprised face.

Lucy was momentarily startled by the question and very nearly answered in the negative, at least to the child who asked the question. "Yes, I'm your Aunt. Jace is my sister so that means I have the privilege of being your Aunt, not your Great Aunt."

Lisa beamed at her Mom's sister, she'd heard that Lucy didn't like them much and that was why she usually didn't come to any of the other family gatherings. "Good, because Catherine say's it's nice to have family around and ours seems to grow every year. Do you like us?"

Francesca stifled the laughter the comment brought, and turned to Lucy to check out her reaction. Her friend was obviously startled by the forthright question; she could see several expressions cross Lucy's features as she tried to compose a suitable reply.

"Of course I like you! Why wouldn't I?" Lucy finally answered, looking around to see if her Father was in the near vicinity. Perhaps he could take this precocious child away.

"You didn't come to the wedding it was a nice wedding. Mind you our Great Aunt Consa didn't come either, maybe Aunt's don't go to weddings." Lisa's childish logic supplied an answer of her own.

"Yes, well something came up. How about when we get back to the ranch you show me the photographs, that way you can tell me what I've missed." Lucy tactically tried to vindicate herself from that question.

"We have a video too, want to see that with me?" The girl smiled at her Aunt Lucy.

"Sure." Lucy turned her attention to her friend who was smiling at her in amusement. "Fran do you want to watch the wedding of my sister to Catherine, with Lisa too?"

Francesca was given a piercing stare from two sets of blue eyes and grinning nodded her head. "Of course I do, wouldn't miss it."

Elena chose that moment to walk over to Lucy and pull at her trousers to gain attention. "Hey Elena are you giving Rio a break?" Lucy laughed at the toothless grin she received from her youngest niece.

Climbing up onto Lucy's lap Elena placed her arms around the young woman's shoulders, and gave her a smacking wet kiss on the side of her neck. "Sleep now."

"Okay." Lucy gently pulled the child closer to her and gave a wry glance to her friend, what could you do in the circumstances.

"I guess you have the maternal side after all Lucy." Francesca said softly as she saw how natural and gentle her friend was with the toddler.

"Well, believe me it will be a long time before I ever have any kids, if I do at all." Lucy replied softly as she gazed down at her niece who had closed her eyes, appearing to sleep immediately. ëJust like her big sister.'

Francesca smiled slowly at the remark, how many women actually said that and ended up with at least one child along the way. "Time will tell, it always does."

"Are you Lucy's friend like Anna at school is my friend?" Lisa engaged the other woman in conversation. She loved to talk to new people and this lady appeared to be real nice.

Fran turned to the child and held out her hand for the youngster to join them on the bench. "Yes, that's right Lisa just like your friend Anna."

~ ~ ~

Chapter Fifty

Jace watched as Catherine gave Tralargon the small apple she had taken from the kitchen and placed in her pocket, unknown to anyone or so she thought. Jace knew that was something Catherine did every time she went to see the mare, but was not going to ride her. Also suspecting the majority of the household did too! Who was going to say anything, it was a trait of her partner that Catherine did not like too many people to see, or certainly acknowledge, the softer side of her nature.

"Catherine how old is Tralargon?" Jace asked her quietly not wanting to spook the horse, she was about to foal any day and was a little skittish at times.

"She's twelve, I bought her from a horse breeder in Sydney about eight years ago now, he was going bankrupt but knew his horse flesh. I guess I took to her immediately and she to me." Catherine retorted softly as she stroked the muzzle of the horse that snorted in satisfaction at the gentle caress.

"I can understand that perfectly." Jace smiled, as she was given a quizzical glance from the taller woman.

"What exactly. That the guy was going bankrupt or that Tralargon would take to me?" The emerald eyes of her partner now ensnared Catherine, her heart raced as she felt the warmth and love flood over her.

"Oh, that she was taken by you, I know how that works." Jace whispered huskily.

"You do? Well, my love I'm eternally grateful for that. Seems I appeal to young fillies or at least I used to." Catherine patted the horse's flank one last time moving closer to Jace, smiling wickedly.

"Young fillies? Precisely where would you class me in that list?" Jace loved the banter she and Catherine had developed over time, it had been a long haul but they were now working together in every aspect, which made the news she wanted to impart to Catherine all the more special.

"Oh my love you are no young filly." Catherine winked at her as she went over to the basin and washed her hands after handling the mare.

"I'm not? Oh dear, have I aged so much Darling?" Jace asked tongue in cheek.

Catherine spun around and heard the teasing behind the words. Feeling happy with the world, and all she had around her, especially the love of this woman. She couldn't resist flicking the soap bubbles at her partner, laughing as the bubbles landed on her nose and the side of her cheek. "Not you Jace, you will always be young to me."

"Catherine! Did you have to." Jace exclaimed, in exaggerated disapproval as her own laughter bubbled over.

Wiping her hands on the fresh towel, she held out her hand and beckoned Jace forward. "How about I personally clean you up?"

There was no hesitation as Jace moved swiftly over to be encircled within Catherine's arms as she diligently wiped away the offending bubbles.

"Mmm you can clean me up any time Darling." Jace's voice was filled with love for the woman who was starring at her intently, the look she received bordered on indecent, she was sure.

Catherine heard the emotional pitch in her voice. "I love you Jace."

Bending closer, she brought the blonde towards her so that their lips were scant millimetres away from each other. Ice blue eyes scanning emerald ones, with an intensity that made Jace catch her breath, the feelings within her coursing around at an incredible pace.

"I love you too Catherine." Jace finally choked out emotionally as her partner's lips captured hers in a searing kiss that threatened to explode every sense she had inside.

Several minutes later they both finally allowed each other an inch or two of space. The intensity of their kisses sending them beyond coherent thought, and almost into a public display of the consummation of the love they shared.

"Jace, you are happy aren't you?" Catherine asked quietly as she rested her forehead on the smaller woman's loosely held in her arms.

"Of course I am Catherine, deliriously so. Why do you ask?" Jace smiled into the eyes that held a faint worried look in them.

"I just feel that the last few weeks you kind of were a little withdrawn, I was worried that was all. You're not sick are you Jace?" Catherine asked anxiously as she pulled away from their embrace to look at her partner directly.

Jace pursed her lips slightly, watching the passion flare in Catherine's eyes as she let the expression remain for a few seconds more. A twinkle appeared in the bright green eyes and Catherine gave her a fixed look waiting for the answer.

"I'm not sick Catherine, at least not conventionally sick."

Catherine was perplexed at the answer, ëwhat did that mean? Was Jace trying to make it easy for her? That she was sick really, but didn't want her to know.' "Jace what do you mean?" The whispered words held a hesitancy and degree of fear, which made the blonde realise how much power she really had over this woman held so close to her.

"Catherine, sit down." Jace motioned to the hay bales that littered the stable. She gently pushed her partner to the nearest one and sat down next to her, picking up a much larger hand and tracing the lines of the palm.

"It's bad isn't it Jace? You don't want to hurt me with the news do you?" Catherine bleakly voiced her fears, as she felt the sting of tears at the back of her eyes.

"Catherine, Catherine! Why do you always persist in thinking the worse? Darling I'm quite fit and trust me this news will not hurt you." Jace calmed her partner as she turned Catherine's palm towards her lips kissing it gently.

"What then?" Catherine could not help the anxious tone, although it did sound more like an order than an inquiry.

"You know I went to see Mom and Dad about Lucy a couple of months ago, well almost three months now?" Jace kept eye contact with Catherine this news was so very important to them both.

"Yes, yes of course I do. I missed you!" Catherine stated quietly.

"I missed you to Darling. I thought that as I was close by so to speakÖ." Jace stopped her explanation as Catherine intervened.

"Close to where?" Jace smiled warmly at the question, Catherine could be so impatient sometimes.

"Boston." The blonde waited for Catherine to digest that news.

"Boston? Why Boston?" Catherine asked unsure of the significance of the place and then as she said the words, it dawned on her the reason or at least the only reason she could think of.

"You went to see the Doctor again?" Whispered the woman tremulously, she wanted this to be something they did together.

"I went to see the Doctor Catherine and we are going to have another baby." Jace replied quietly, her eyes sparkling with the happy news. Knowing that as soon as it sunk in with Catherine she would be happy too.

Catherine was shocked, no amazed, no awedÖor was it all of them and the rest that the euphoric emotions, triggered with the mention of a baby, caused.  "Jace, we're having a baby?"

Smiling at the awed tone from her partner, she wanted to laugh at the expression along with the acute loss of words that the news had brought about. "That's right Catherine, we're having a baby and when I say we, I really do mean we!"

Catherine's face changed becoming wreathed in smiles, gloriously happy smiles, emitting like a beacon from her features. "We are having a baby! My god Jace why didn't you tell me?" It no longer mattered that Jace had gone alone they would talk about that later, it suddenly wasn't the most important issue to her.

Jace did laugh this time as she hugged Catherine to her tightly, kissing her tenderly. "I just did."

Catherine wanted to shout out the news at the top of her voice, but first she wanted to know it all. "Jace, I went there myself you know, when you were home with the children when they were sick. I don't quite recall telling you, did I?"

Hearing the apology in the voice but already knowing the details of Catherine's visit, the Doctor had been very clear about her partner's visit and the instructions she had been given.

"I know, Doctor Cassidy informed me of your visit. Do you know how much I love you?" Jace could not help the tears that fell as she recalled the Doctor's conversation.

"Mrs. Warriorson, I was given explicit instructions by Mrs. Catherine Warriorson should you arrive for the donor sperm." Doctor Cassidy wondered if this couple ever did get together at anytime, as they always appeared alone for the consultations.

"You were? Did Catherine call you?" Jace asked surprised, Catherine hadn't mentioned that she had called the Doctor at any time.

"Mrs. Warriorson visited personally several weeks ago. You didn't know about it?" Cassidy was surprised at the omission. The other woman had been adamant that her relationship with this woman here in the room was very solid.

Jace stroked her chin absently, "No, we have had a few problems recently, it must have slipped her mind. What were the instructions please?"

Cassidy looked down at the notes of both women, the instructions were simple enough to deal with. If everything went well and the situation resulted in success, then there was a rather large bonus in the offing for the clinic.

"Mrs. Warriorson donated two of her eggs to be used with your consent should anything happen to her. The procedure is quite common in certain circumstances." Cassidy watched the surprise mirror on the face before her.

"Catherine donated her eggs? Did she stipulate that they could only be used if something should happen to her? What if I chose to take the donation now and we agreed the sperm donor. I take it she did make some choices in that area?" Jace's mind buzzed with the information she was being given. Here was her chance to bear a child that would be Catherine's child; no one could take that away from her partner!

"Well, she did state that specifically, although as to exactly what she meant, that could be taken in many ways I suppose." Cassidy reluctantly admitted glancing over the file again.

"Then let's go over the sperm donor's Catherine chose please Doctor. When can I have the procedure?" This was such an exciting situation; she wanted to inform Catherine immediately.  Looking at the calendar and noting that in three months it would be Christmas, what a Christmas present it would be if everything worked out.

"Tomorrow be too soon?" Cassidy grinned at the blonde woman her enthusiasm was infectious.

"Not soon enough." Jace admitted frankly with a wide grin, as she was motioned to a computer console to consult over the selections of the sperm donor Catherine had chosen.

"As long as it's as much as I love you, I think we will both be happy don't you. Jace it's incredible news and simply the best Christmas present I could hope to ever receive." Catherine's voice was brimming over with joy as she pulled Jace into a tender embrace kissing her hair as she did so.

"Darling, that isn't all the news, I have more." Jace chuckled as she saw the wonder cross her partner's face.

"You have more news?" Catherine whispered into her blonde hair.

"Catherine when I said it was our baby I meant that truly. I agreed to your donor egg being implanted. Therefore my love it really will be yours, no doubt about it." Jace explained quietly feeling the tempo of Catherine's heart respond to the words.

"Mine? You're having my baby Jace?" Catherine choked out lifting her head so she could look at the face of the woman who had already given her so much, and was now taking her love one step further. How incredible could life be!

"All yours Catherine." Jace whispered as she watched the tears trail down Catherine's cheeks in happiness. There was so much that this woman deserved, and as long as she was alive, Catherine was going to receive whatever she could provide to make her happy.

"I don't know what to say Jace." Catherine softly entreated her partner through her tears.

Jace stroked away the track of tears as she tenderly replied; "you have said everything Catherine, in your words, actions and emotions. I've never felt so close to you as I do at this moment, being allowed to make you happy for all your tomorrows, makes me so fulfilled I feel as if my heart is bursting."

Catherine starred into the emerald eyes that captured her heart and soul, oh so long ago. Now here in a stable, how terribly ironic that was. Her partner was giving her the one true gift any human could give to another, A NEW LIFE.

"Jace, I think we need to go inside the house, or when we give out this special news, there could be talk." Catherine pointed out with a wicked grin.

"What do you mean?" Jace asked innocently as she was hauled up from the hay bale gently, Catherine's arm snaking round her waist.

"Christmas Eve, a stable and a baby? All we need is the three wise men, a donkey and we might be on the news!" Catherine quipped, as Jace slapped her playfully on the arm for her comments.

As they left the barn, Jace suddenly realised that there had been one more thing she'd forgotten to inform her partner of as she leaned upwards to whisper the information to Catherine.

If anyone had been watching the exchange they would have seen a happy silly grin change on the taller of the women's faces, to one of shock, then an even sillier grin, as she turned to the smaller woman and picked her up off her feet. Holding her close as she shouted, "TWINS" before lips sealed that wonderful additional news.  "Yes"

~ ~ ~

Everyone had gathered in the lounge before dinner, tonight it was going to be the largest family gathering that had ever been seen on Destiny since Catherine's custodian ship of the property.

As she walked towards the central point of the beautiful Christmas tree, she smiled at the faces before her, shaking her head a little as she realised how fortunate she had been that day on Cutters Ridge, when her life had changed forever. Regardless of the problems and the tragedy that seemed to dog her family, this was all worth it, the happiness and love that emanated in this room today.

"Well, as we are all here, even the youngest edition to our growing family here on Destiny.  It's time to indulge me in one of my family traditions. Placing your own Christmas bauble on the tree. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the process, I've a selection of baubles on the table for you to chose from." Catherine pointed to the small table with several ornaments of differing complexity.

Lucy and Francesca moved over to select an item. Lucy's expression was one of amused tolerance. ëWas this woman really a ruthless bitch, for she sure as hell didn't come across as one. Soft in the head was more her estimation but if her sister was happy what the hell.'

Catherine turned surprised eyes to Constantia and Sarah, who she had expected would need to take up her offer. Smiling, Constantia removed a small item from under the blanket that encased her legs.

Inclining her head, Catherine acknowledged that her Aunt had also kept up the family tradition.

"I think this year we will have a change of routine. Jake, men first I think." Giving her son a smile, her eyes twinkling happily as he looked up with a surprised but happy expression.

After everyone had placed their particular choice on the tree, all eyes turned back to Catherine, as Jake passed her the crowning glory of the tree. The angel she had kept, which had belonged to her mother.

As she rescued it from the tissue paper it had nestled in for the storage months, a gasp was heard from Constantia as the object was brought into view.

Whispered words of Greek filled the silent room, all eyes focused on Constantia who had paled slightly at the sight of the angel.

Catherine moved swiftly to her Aunt's side and gave her a concerned quizzical stare. "Is something wrong Aunt?"

Constantia looked up and saw the compassionate warmth in her niece's eyes; ëOh life could be quite wonderful, thank you God for allowing me to see this part of Catherine.' Her thoughts must have mirrored in her eyes as Catherine bent down to kiss her Aunt's cheek in an impromptu and uncharacteristic display of affection.

"I thought the angel had been lost." Constantia tremulously remarked as she brought her gaze to the very old family heirloom.

"You have seen this before?" Catherine asked quietly, as she gently held the angel out for inspection.

"Yes. Oh Catherine, Papa gave it to us the first Christmas Mama wasn't with us. He said that it would remind us of Mama and she would enjoy Christmas with us every year through the angel. Elena always put the angel on top of the Christmas tree, Papa thought it fitting as she was very young and didn't understand why Mama couldn't join us for Christmas." The older woman's voice broke as silent tears trailed down her lined cheeks; it was a poignant story.

Jace saw Catherine stiffen at the story of the angel. Having either forgotten the story as one sometimes does as a child, or had never heard it and associated it only with her own mother, who had died when her children were young. Walking swiftly over to her partner she placed a hand on Catherine's shoulder and squeezed it in understanding.

"IÖI made sure that when we had our personal belongings put into storage that some of the Christmas ornaments went too, particularly the angel. It was Mama's favourite but until now I did not know why." Catherine stated simply, her voice wavered slightly as she felt her weak left eye drip a single tear.

"Catherine, how about you place the angel on top of the tree and let her weave wonderful magic for us." Jace said quietly to her partner, and pulled her away from her stationary position beside the wheelchair.

"Yes, yes of course." Catherine brought herself out of her trance like state proceeding to do just that. As the angel sat pride of place at the top of the tree, Colin switched the lights on and for a few minutes they all watched the shimmering array of light, losing themselves in their own thoughts.

As everyone started to talk with the nearest person to them, Catherine cleared her voice nodding to Judy and Faith who left the room immediately.

"Before we go into dinner, I'd like to make a couple of important announcements if you would indulge me a little while longer." Catherine said clearly, Jace who was straightening the bow in Lisa's hair looked up in surprise. ëWhat announcements? Surely she wasn't going to mention their news?'

Judy and Faith came back into the room with trays laden with drinks of differing kinds and offered them to everyone.

"I would like to make this a very special Christmas Eve this year. A few days ago Jace received some papers that made us both extremely happy. I would like to raise a toast to Jake and Lisa." Both children looked around the room wondering if they had missed something.

"Jake, Lisa will you come here?" Catherine smiled warmly at them, waiting for them to come forward.

The two children slowly made their way to the middle of the room beside Catherine. Then Catherine turned to Jace smiling slowly, passing a silent message for her to come forward also.

Jace gave her a frown of consternation, and then she realised what Catherine was up to grinning at her as she went forward.

"Jake, Lisa you are now the legally adopted children of Jace Warriorson. Welcome officially to the family." Catherine softly explained and saw the children gain a wide-eyed expression as the words registered.

Loud applause and congratulations came from the others in the room as the toast was raised to celebrate the fact.

Lisa was the first one to speak. "We really are a family now? No one can take us from you?"

Jace bent down so she was close to the child, kissing her cheek. "Not now darling, now you can live with us forever if you want."

Lisa whooped for joy as she threw her arms around Jace, kissing her back. Then rushed over to be picked up hugged and kissed by Catherine too.

Jake watched the scene his ësister' was making and he turned a shade red as he considered what he should do.

Suddenly he made a decision and looked towards Colin, mouthing an instruction to him.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I believe Jake wants to say something." Colin winked at the boy, as all attention turned to him. He turned a shade redder as he cleared his throat and looked to Jace and Catherine.

"A toast please, to the best parents any boyÖand his sisters could have." He smiled shyly at them both as the toast was acknowledged and Jace went over to hug him.

Catherine smiled at the boy, as she gazed at the others in the room. "I know you will all be ready for dinner, but there is one final thing this evening, if you will bear with me."

"I was always under the impression that you didn't go in for speeches Catherine?" Grace chuckled as she smiled at her friend who had suddenly become so very vocal.

"Ah, but if there is a good reason, I can be vocal, wouldn't you say Jace?" Catherine smirked at her partner; Jace knew exactly what she meant by that remark.

"YesÖ well, put us all out of our misery Catherine and tell us what the final announcement is. I'm sure everyone can hardly wait." Jace suspected that Catherine was going to announce their news and waited patiently for her partner to do just that.

"Well actually darling this is for you." Jace was startled by that comment, looking with wide eyes at her partner.

Me?" Jace gasped out in surprise.

"Jace I had a visit from someone a few months ago, when you were in America. They gave me a gift that I never thought I'd receive without a long battle." Catherine turned to Alison, smiling as she beckoned for Elena to be brought forward into the family circle.

"Jace, you have always told me that Elena is my daughter, well as of a month ago she is my adopted daughter too." Catherine pierced Jace with a loving ice blue gaze, and could feel the happiness bubbling inside as she saw the disbelief, then the joy that flashed over her partners' face.

"Catherine, he signed?" Jace asked unable to believe the words Catherine had uttered, she had thought would be years away.

"He signed." Immediately engulfed in a loving embrace from her partner, who was crying with supreme joy at the news.

"I love you Catherine, for today and everyday, all your tomorrows." Jace said her words muffled slightly, as she pressed her face into her neck.

"As I love you Jace, for now and forever. You are my one and only destiny." Catherine whispered into her ear, smiling at the tear stained face of the woman she loved.

Judy opened the door, and the others followed the lead leaving the happy family to celebrate for a few moments alone.

Catherine smiled at the children who were looking at them indulgently. She released Jace slightly, pulling Lisa closer, as Jace turned and placed an arm around Jake who was holding Elena in his arms.

If this was what all their tomorrows would bring, then it was certainly worth fighting every obstacle placed in their path to achieve it.

As her thoughts wandered to a poem her partner had once recited to her, a long time ago.

You were bound for me,
I needed to explain so you could see.
Fate decreed the meeting place,
Tragedy already beset your face.
It was preordained,
No actions ever to be explained.
A chance only you and I could have taken,
Oh what wonderful words were spoken.
Enroute for loves explosion,
We almost missed and ended up in collision.
The chance to ensure our fate,
With luck we wouldn't be too late.
Now as fortune pushes forward,
We happily head toward.
The greatest love we can achieve,
A destiny defined always to receive.

Catherine Xianthos Devonshire Warriorson had finally arrived HOME.

The End

 Return to the Academy

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Author's Note

After the closing stages of the fifth story in the 'Destiny Series' I would like to add a footnote for all those readers who have travelled the journey with the characters and myself. I've enjoyed, and believe acted upon where possible, the feedback I've received over the last year and a half. Solving, it is hoped, the many mysteries regarding the plots and the characters themselves. As in the real world there will always be the odd loose end!

Well, my loose ends cover lots of twists and turns. What will happen when the twins are born?  Lucy has so many choices; will she follow her sister or branch out on her own? What were Danni O'Neil's secrets and did they die with her? Whatever happened to the ever-faithful nemesis Hudson? Last, but not least, what was in that box? With Jace's and Catherine's luck it could be a Pandora's Box!

Did I really say this was the end? Shall I take a woman's prerogative and change her mind and say...expect the unexpected?

For the moment however, it is farewell from the Destiny clan.

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