New Year's Eve Part 14

Beth just laughed, "I am sure there is a meaning somewhere but it is okay. Just stay away from John, I know people that can change your life."
Nickie saw her smile but still wondered if she would do something to her if she ever found her with John. Nickie and Chris were in their room for the next few days.
New Year's eve Nickie and Chris appeared at the breakfast table. John just laughed and said, "So you thought you would show up before the end of the year?"
Chris said,"I thought I would get some protein to keep my stamina up."
Nickie blushed. Beth chuckled.
Beth leaned into Nickie, "you will need to keep your health and energy up too."
Nickie said, "I do not know why but I have a lot of energy now."
Beth just smiled knowingly at her.
They continued their discussion on about what was going to happen tonight. Chris and Nickie went back to their room. John jokingly said, "should we call you to remind you to come to the party?"
Chris nodded behind Nickie's back.
Beth stood up and whispered to John something about going down the Amazon. He quickly followed her. The afternoon was fun for both couples.
At dinner everyone was dressed up for the New Year. Tyler had planned a delicious meal of Lime marinated cedar plan salmon, rice pilaf, spinach/green leaf salad with balsamic dressing, with Gewurztraminer - Hugel from Alsace, France
Viognier - Yalumba Eden Valley from Australia wines to go with it. Nickie had Martinelli's sparkling cider to go with hers. Everyone was talking and joking. Then the dancing started. John and Beth went for a stroll off by themselves. John pulled out a diamond necklace with three diamonds descending. She kissed him with a tear in her eye. She nuzzled his face and he quietly said, "they represent the three of us. You and Hunter are the most important people in my life. I would die if I ever lost the both of you."
"I love you too," Beth whispered.
Nickie and Chris walked in on them. "Oh, are we interrupting something," asked Chris. John and Beth looked at him and smiled. John said, "I think we expressed what we wanted to each other" as he squeezed Beth around the waist. Beth smiled at Nickie pointing to the necklace.
"Oh, how pretty," she said as she reached for the necklace around Beth's neck. She turned to John and asked when he purchased it. John was going to say something, Nickie was pretty sure he had left the compound after all. But her thoughts were interrupted by "I picked it up for him." She turned around to see Rand talking to her. She smiled at him then at Beth. Beth received the message loud and clear, there was another candidate for the baby's father. She just giggled, and Nickie stuck her tongue out at her. Then she stood behind Rand and Chris and mouthed Bailey to Beth.
Beth was adding up the men, Rand, Bailey,Sam, Tyler, Richard and Chris. Wow, she also wondered about Matthew at Thanksgiving.
Nickie said, "Earth to Beth?"
"Oh, I am sorry my mind was somewhere else," Beth said coming back to reality.
Nickie said, "I was just saying that the hors d'ouvres were put out already and wondered if you wanted to get some?"
"Sure," she looked up at John, "Would you like something too?"
"Yes, a drink and anything you would think I would like," he replied.
They went off to get some food. "So what were you thinking about," Nickie asked.
"Oh, I was counting the different men it could be and wondering about Matthew," replied Beth.
Nickie about spit out the olive she had just picked up. "I hadn't even thought about him."
"Just assure me that John is not on the list," stated Beth.
Nickie just laughed, "No, he is not. He has been with you mainly so there was not any time to seduce him."
Beth laughed too. "Do you know who you want to stay with? Who do you want the father to be?"
"No, I have not decided yet. But I tell you I am having fun with Chris."
"Oh, I bet you are!"
"No, not only the sex but getting to know him better. We do talk you know," Nickie laughed.
"I know how it is. Remember I had this problem a year and a half ago. That is why Richard and I became so close. That is why the special ceremony."
They had two plates each and Beth just took the wine bottle. John laughed, "No, cups?"
"Oh, I forgot," Beth responded.
Chris went and picked up the cups. They sat down at the table in the area. It was a nice way to end the evening with friends. Then a nice slow dance with their lovers. Then a toast to the New Year and to a happier year for all of them. As the ball dropped in New York Chris leaned over to kiss Nickie, and John took Beth in his arms to give her a nice long kiss.
Happy New Year!
Surprises around the corner!!!

Pre-New Years part 13

Nickie and Beth met with the men back at the party. They stayed for about an hour more then they went back to their rooms. Nickie took Beth's advice. She told Chris she wanted to have a baby and the rest of the night they worked on that. Beth whispered to John that she wanted to do that move she saw Francesca do to him in their bed. He obliged by getting into position. She enjoyed the position and the tried it in different ways.

At lunch the next day Nickie told Beth that she had taken her advice. Nickie then became brave enough to ask her what the position was? How did you confirm it with Richard?

"Oh," Beth smiled, "It was called Amazon reversed, and she described it to Nickie. Then she showed the picture of John and Francesca which made more sense than describing it. I also showed this to Richard so he could identify her as the woman he had slept with in Italy. He finally got it that she would have wanted Beth killed and not John. I figure he thought I was out of it enough not to remember what he said. I figure that we will have one great weekend and then he will tell me it is over."

Nickie asked, "Do you want it to be over? Now that I am back with Chris I want to be with him. But if I am in the kitchen cooking with Tyler I want to be with him, in Italy it was Richard. This is so frustrating."

Beth laughed, "I bet. It is sounds like the song "you love the one you are with". I really loved being with Richard, he loved me without feeling sorry for me for my past, it was so wonderful. When I was with Richard for those two weeks, it was wonderful. We worked so well, but that night that I was attacked and he took it so hard that I lost the baby. My heart went out to him. But now, knowing that all he wanted me for was a baby, that the midnight romance at the beach will be over, that is hard. But I can live with that. I will find someone new to play with I am sure. Right now I have fun with John. Try this position with Chris tonight. I tried it last night with John, it was interesting and added some fun to our relationship."

"Oh, that is cold that you did that they same day he found out she died," laughed Nickie.

"I know," Beth laughed, "but every once in awhile I have to remind him, that he owes me. We had started trying for a baby before she came back into his life, besides he was using up all of his energy for her. He seems relieved that she is gone. He doesn't have to be tempted by her anymore. Now I just keep the Ireland nanny away from him and he should be good. She was still sending him emails up until we left for the hideout. He had his laptop cleaned before we went to New York. I honestly think sometimes that he changed it out somewhere along the way."

Nickie laughed, she enjoyed having her friend back. But that did not mean she was going to give up Richard. "Chris is staying through the new year. He does not have to start filming until the end of next week. I think he changed his plans when I told him I wanted to have a baby. I hope this works. Tell me how did you change the DNA test to show the father that you wanted?"

"Change," Beth smiled, "I did not change the DNA test. I allowed John to take care of that. As far as I know John is the father and I stay with that decision. I know that you do not believe me but I was pregnant before I met him. I just had found out and left the tester on the sink. John called me at the lighthouse and I told him I needed time to let it sink in. He was so happy. I had taken another home pregnancy the next morning. Hunter is really John's."

Nickie looked at her in amazement. "Really, he looks so much like Richard though. John had the DNA test done? Should I ask him then?"
Beth smiled, "What do you think?"
Nickie responded, "I think I will have the man I pick do the DNA test if that is required."
"That sounds good to me. Part of me is glad I do not have to worry about that anymore, the other part is sad though," Beth said. "So I guess on New Year's eve you will have to drink sparingly if not at all."
"Oh crap, that is right, I have not thought that far ahead yet. This is all so new to me. But Chris is so happy though and he has so much energy! How long was he having the affair with the nanny?"
"Almost the whole time we were there. She seduced him because she though I could not have any fun. But I had stopped any
of that until near the very end. So he was having twice the fun! Weasel! But he has not been with her since then at least I think he hasn't."
"Beth, I have something to confess. I slept with Sam also. He might be the father. Don't hate me, I know you must have slept with Chris."
"Nickie, I think that is great that you slept with Sam. Did you do it on the Harley? He is so good on the bike." Nickie about choked. Beth continued, "That does not bother me at all. I had told Bambi to enjoy him too. But I am sorry I have not slept with Chris, not even once. So why is it that you want to sleep with the men I have slept with?"
"No, clue," Nickie responded.

Part 12 Christmas day eve

Nickie caught up with Beth in front of the tree in the early afternoon. "I hope you don't mind but I looked at the photo album."
Beth turned to her, "No, I do not mind. Do you have questions about the last picture? The one that has me in white dress and flowers around my head standing on the porch outside of the master bedroom?"
"Yes, I was wondering what that meant?" Nickie was wondering who Beth was really married to. There was some kind of reason that she did not want to know that he was married when she slept with him. Not that the knowing her best friend was sleeping with him did not upset her either.

"That happened when I first met him several years ago on the beach near the lighthouse. We had a special ceremony acknowledging our love to each other. He knew I was married but he wanted to be connected to me in a different ceremony. That is why he would not sleep with you in that room. He does not take anyone to the master bedroom except me. He has been faithful to me in that way," Beth said quietly.

"Oh," was all that Nickie could say. She thought how weird that sounded having a ceremony to declare your love with a lover. Nickie's phone started to vibrate and she walked away to take the call. "Yes, Tom, what is it? No, John has been at the hideaway all this time. No, he has not left. I was with Richard all the time while we were in Italy. Why, what has happened? Oh, my did she survive? Oh, when did this happen. Oh, I see. Yes, I will have John call you as soon as possible. Bye."

Beth looked up when she came back, "Trouble?"

"Looks like we all have alibis for this one. Where is John I need to tell him first."

"Tell me what," John asked when he walked into the room with Chris.

"John, I am sorry to tell you this but Francesca died last week, after she was interrogated in Italy by the Polizia. Tom wants you to call him as soon as possible. It first looked like a suicide but due to the circumstances surrounding this mess they are looking into her past."

Beth had moved beside him when she heard the news, "Are you alright? Is there something I can get you?"

John looked at her and smiled, "No, sweetheart, you are the only thing I need. This saddens me but it does not surprise me either." Then he walked over to Nickie to get the phone to call Tom. Before she gave it to him, "you have not left the compound have you?"

He looked a little surprised, "No, I haven't. I have been by Beth's side this whole time."

"Good that is what I told Tom," she responded and gave him the phone.

Nickie walked over to Chris to give John some privacy. But not before hearing, "so everything was taken care of wasn't it?"
Chris was thumbing through Beth's photograph when he saw the last one and looked quizzically at her. Nickie and Beth just laughed.
"It is a long story," Nickie laughed.

John came back in the room, "well, I guess we should all day here through New Years. They are still investigating it and with us all out of sight we are not bringing up any alarms for once. Looks like all charges were dropped against me in the financial fraud case, since it looks like Overmeyer was framing me."

Nickie looked over at Beth but there was not a reaction from her. John handed the phone back and asked Chris if he wanted to shoot some pool. So they left.
Nickie took the chance to ask, "What was he talking about the financial fraud case they had on him?"

She said quietly, "I do not know. I knew that he moved some money around before we went to New York but I never really knew about his money or how we had money. I have my own money won from the cases against the Jason and Chuck during the first trial, something to do with civil cases. So I use my money and since I have been married, I just ask him for money if I need it. He told me not to worry if I was asked. Just to remember we own everything we have and there is no money elsewhere."

Nickie just looked at her, "Do you believe him about the money?"

Beth answered, "Yes, we don't pay any mortgages; most of the stuff was bought before I came. I think he is on the up and up. There is no reason for me to think anything else. Why, what are you thinking?"

"It was just a weird statement, it must have been the cover he was under while he was working with Overmeyer," Nickie said.

"Well, for me I am not going to doubt him, I have had enough trouble in my life."

Nickie agreed outwardly. But she still wanted to know. Then as she thought about it if she made trouble for John then Beth would end up with Richard, and she really wanted to sleep with him again. So she decided to leave it alone at least for now. Her phone vibrated again, it was Richard. She told him about Francesca, he seemed shocked by it. Then he asked for Beth. He never talked about them on the phone. She turned and gave Beth the phone.

"Hi, yes it was a lovely gift. Yes, she looked at it. I did explain about the dress and the ceremony. I know you slept with her. No, I am not mad at you. She chuckled, Yes, I know you have a big drive. I should be able to see you when I get back. That would be nice. I don't want to spend a night at the lighthouse yet. I would love it if you would take me back there. I love you too."

Nickie took the phone to talk to him, but he had hung up. She laid it down thinking, "so he told you that we slept with each other?"

"That is why your blog didn't upset me the way you thought. He tells me everything about all the women he sleeps with between the times I see him. Partly, I think as a confession and partly to make me jealous."

"Everything?"

"Yes, every detail. You see if I hadn't been in seclusion here when you came back from Italy he would have called from the master bedroom and told me while you slept in the spare bedroom. It is like his confession. But just think if I hadn't been in seclusion you would not have gotten so close to him. I had no problem with you going with him, because I trusted you. Now I know I shouldn't when it comes to men."

"It just doesn't seem fair that he is going to tell your every detail."

"Oh, I think it is. I seem to remember you watched with Bambie when I was with Sam on the Harley. Which are worse words or watching?"

Nickie laughed, "But that was fun you were having a good ride on that Harley!"

They both laughed, "Yes, I had a lot of fun that night. I didn't know I had an audience either."

Chris and John walked in, "What is all the laughing about?"

"Oh, just remembering a fun time we had on one of the trips," laughed Nickie.

"Well, we were just told an hour until dinner. So we better go get dressed for dinner," John told them.

Beth smiled, "An hour is just about right for dressing. Then as she past Nickie and undressing too."

Nickie chuckled, then walked right to Chris and their room. They dressed in their holiday dresses that the staff had laid out for them. Beth had a red dress with off the shoulders white fur at the top and around the cuffs. It was very flattering dress for her. John was drooling when she put it on. She handed him a handkerchief, laughing. Nickie had a red dress also. Hers was more scarlet going from one shoulder down leaving the other shoulder bare. Then there were stars that were cut out along her waist across her waist. It was very flattering and she walked confidently in the room. Dinner was scrumptious. Santa is always the life of the party. Beth and Nickie both were able to sit on his lap and tell him what they wanted for Christmas. After dinner they went in the area where the tree was to sing songs and have some hot chocolate. There was also dancing. When Nickie saw Chris dancing with Beth she tried to get John to dance. He was a little rusty on the fox trot but they made it through it. They ended up back with their own partners. John was a much better dancer with Beth more than he had been with Nickie. Later Nickie mentioned this to Beth. "Well, I can only surmise why it happened, is that the last woman he was with besides me tried to have his family killed, even though you were not trying to seduce him, he had read your blog and you look very nice in that dress."

The ladies excused themselves to go freshen up. Beth guided Nickie to a sitting area. "I need to tell you something. I am remembering the night of the attack. I want to share something that only you can know. Not anyone else, promise me this?"

Nickie said, " I promise."

"Nickie, the baby I lost, it was Richard's."

"What," Nickie exclaimed.

"This past summer/fall time when John went off for two weeks and I had no clue where or why, we had been trying to have a baby sister or brother for Hunter. It was right near the time that I would be ovulating and he was gone. I called Richard and he met me in Denver then we flew to the cottage together. During the two weeks we hardly came up for air. It was near the middle of the week that I just felt pregnant. I shared that with Richard and we spent the remaining days celebrating it. I arrived home about two hours before John. He never knew I had left. We spent the rest of the day with each other. So when the doctors told me I lost the baby I knew he thought it was his because it could have been. But what I haven't told you is... I don't know how to tell you. I really think that Richard knew of the attack."

Nickie said, "No. Why would he hurt you?"

"I think he thought they were going to attack John and not me. He arrived while they were attacking me. I couldn't see him but I heard his voice shouting, "No!" Jason and Chuck just laughed. One restrained him while the other raped me. I heard him sobbing. They repeatedly raped me. Then Chuck began kicking me in the head and the stomach. I heard him yelling that "she is pregnant stop kicking her." He covered me because I was half naked when the paramedics came. I remember hearing that they told him I had lost the baby and they thought I should have a hysterectomy but he told them to fix me as best as they could. He took me home against the doctor’s wishes. That night after you left he made love to me again and again. It was like he was trying to get me pregnant again. If it had not been Richard I would have thought I was being raped again. He was rough and his language kept getting rougher with me. Nickie, I found something of yours in the bathroom that night, your prescription for the pill, a half month from November and the December one. Were you missing them?"

"Oh, my I haven't been taking it since I had the fight with Chris at the lighthouse. I totally forgot to take them! Oh, my I could be pregnant," Nickie exclaimed.

"I think he took them at first because he so wanted us to be pregnant together. Then I think when I lost the baby he set you up. Tell me if I am wrong, but was he the gentleman of your dreams that first night? Did you look back when you went to the other room wanting him to say, "stay with me?" That first night he made love to you, was the third time he muttering something like, "bitch you deserve this, and as he moved, was it with a force and he said, "here it is, you f.....ing c..... you deserve this?"

Nickie cried, "Yes, I was so shocked he was saying that. Then he would be the sweetest man to me. He only did that if we did it more than twice in a night. I had no clue you were starting a family with him. I wouldn't have slept with him if I knew you were having a baby. I feel so bad."

"He never said those types of things until after he heard Jason and Chuck saying that to me. That night it was like he snapped when he was making love to me and he started yelling those things at me. When I just laid there and no response from me he snapped out of it and apologized to me. Nickie, I think you were covering for a few hours in Italy for him. He was conned by Francesca when he was in Italy. I told you he tells me who he sleeps with. She used another name but the move he talked about. I had seen her use it with John. I knew who it was. If you want to have him and his baby tell him you covered for that time he was gone. He will fall head over hills for you. “

“What do you mean that you saw her make the same move with John? You watched them?”

“Do you remember me saying earlier today that Richard had been faithful to me by not sleeping with someone in the master bedroom? Well, after our Italy trip and Francesca was going after John. She would send him provocative e-mails, she would send pictures of her in lingerie and in the nude. I found out by accident one day when I arrived home earlier than expected from a trip. There was this email in full picture on his laptop in his office. The house was quiet, the help was off I guess. So I went up to the bedroom expecting to find John. Which I did with Francesca on top of him in my bed, they had left the door open. They didn’t hear me snap a picture of them on my phone. He looked like he was having fun. I had not seen that smile for so long. I went back downstairs and vomited in the bathroom. I heard him come down and yell to her to wait for him. That he just needed to check my flight. When he walked into his office and saw me in his chair I thought he was going to crap in his pants. Oh, but he was naked standing in front of me. I put the monitor towards him and said, “So are you keeping this as your screen saver?” He stammered. I told him to go back up to the room and f…. her because he was not going to have the chance again. He did it two more times, once in my shower and the second at my front door before she left. When he came back in I had a picture of the three of us on his laptop as a screen saver. I told him if he ever wanted to see his son grow up that he better not ever have a woman in my home or bed again. That is why that whole wing was gutted the next day and we stayed in the spare bedroom for a couple of months. Actually, John slept there by himself for a month. Then I started sleeping and only sleeping next to him. I felt that he had enough of sex in that one day to last for awhile. We were just starting to get back together when I went on that trip that his lovely girlfriend had masterminded. “

“That is why you had your front door replaced? I had wondered. I don’t know what to do. I am not sure if I want to be with Richard, Tyler, or Chris. I am so confused. What should I do?”

“If it was me I would tell Chris you want to have his baby and have some fun. If you find out you are pregnant then you can pick which man you want to be the father. Part of me felt satisfaction that John thought the baby was his when I knew it was Richard’s just because what he did to me in my house with Francesca. I will not be surprised to find out that he had something to do with her death because she took away his child from him. Be oh so careful with him. He is fragile. That is why I made sure he knew that I couldn’t have a baby now. The doctor told me I was having another miscarriage when they did the hysterectomy. It would kill him to know he had lost another one. I knew by telling him he probably would not want me again, it opened it for you if you want to be with him. I think it is time to go back to the party."


"I think so too. I just might take your advice with Chris tonight. To cover my tracks so to speak will you have lunch with me in the town. I think I will have some more questions about all this."

"Sure. I would appreciate this conversation stay between us. I have forgiven John for what he did since we have been here. I see the smile when he makes love to me now.

Merry Christmas part 11

Christmas Eve day was a very busy day. Everyone was bustling around trying to get all the finish touches done to the decorations, the food, and the gifts.
Chris and Nickie headed to town to buy gifts for everyone. Nickie could not believe how much fun she was having especially after the fight with Beth. Chris was loving and attentive. When she was with him she could forget everyone around her. They were loaded with gifts when they came back. They had barely put them under the tree when she heard her name.. "Aunt Nickie, Aunt Nickie." She turned around to see Hunter toddling over and giving her a big hug and kiss. "My how big you are getting! Are you having fun here?"
"Yes, I have been helping," Hunter said proudly.
She looked at him and kept thinking how much he looked like Richard. Then her mind wandered to Italy.....She sighed.
"Are you alright?"
She looked startled and remembered where she was, "Yes, Hunter I am fine. Let's go see if your parents are ready to come down."
"Oh, Mom and dad are sleeping in."
Nickie smiled, "Let's go get a snack then."
Off they went to get a snack in the kitchen. Tyler turned around and smiled. Nickie's heart skipped a beat. Tyler gave them some cookies and eggnog. He whispered, "Tonight, in the kitchen. I will make you a snack like last year."
Nickie agreed. When they left the kitchen Hunter went running to his dad. She looked at Beth. They just nodded to each other. Nickie sat beside her at the table.
"I was wondering if he offered you the spare bedroom when you went back to the cottage?"
Nickie just looked at her and wondered what she knew "yes."
"I thought so. I really am sorry that I treated you that way. It was a shock to read about him with you. I just never thought he was your type that is all."
Nickie just looked at her for a minute still wondering if she was for real or not. "I really thought I was falling in love with him and he with me. But when we came back he treated me like it never happened."
Chris came up and sat down beside Nickie. Beth never responded to that. She smiled at Chris and Nickie wondered what she was up to. John joined them, Hunter had gone to play. She noticed that the smile changed to one of adoration when Beth looked at John. He leaned into kiss her. They just spent a moment nuzzling each other when Chris cleared his throat. John and Beth laughed. John said, "Guess we get carried away sometimes. We just have been so fortunate to find each other again."
Nickie just watched them, part of her wondered if Beth was a threat and the other part was happy for these two because they had been through a lot. Chris asked her, "Are you alright?"
"Yes," she stammered. "I was just thinking, about what they had been through."
John went to get Beth something to drink. Nickie followed to see if he needed help carrying anything. Chris moved towards Beth,"so are you toying with Nickie about us?"
"There is no us, Chris. I just told her to think of what it would be if she found me in your arms. Why did she ask?"
"Yes, last night."
"What was your answer?"
"No, of course. What should have it been?"
Beth smiled, "just that, no."
Chris leaned in and whispered, "but you have wanted to, right?"
Beth looked at him, so close, close enough to kiss, "oh more than once, but you are with Nickie and I couldn't do that to her."
Nickie had been behind them when she heard that. Her stomach fell to the floor, what an unfaithful friend she had been. She almost thought she should allow Beth to sleep with Chris. She came to her senses and cleared her throat letting them know she had entered. They looked up and smiled at her. John sat beside Beth and her attention was only to him.
That evening Nickie was dressed in the gown that she wore with Richard. Chris was drooling at the mouth when he saw her.
Beth was in a gorgeous green velvet gown that was very flattering to her figure but still gave her room to move. She moved slowly on the dance floor but she looked beautiful in John's arms. They toasted their friendship and wished each other a Merry Christmas. The evening was filled with dance, food and liquor. Hunter enjoyed himself then was asleep by ten. John and Beth said their good nights early too. Chris and Nickie stayed to dance some more. Nickie enjoyed the rest of her evening with Chris. He also removed this dress but more in a forceful way so different than Richard. While he slept she crept quietly down to the kitchen. Tyler was waiting for her midnight snack. He looked up and smiled when he saw she had the dress on, to his delight nothing on underneath it. Tyler was methodical in his removing of the dress not as sensual as Richard or rough like Chris but a steady hand, that knew just what to do. She arched her back with delight as she received him. Once again she thought there was not just one man for her.
Meanwhile, Beth had John unzipped her gown. She let it fall. He reached down to pick it up. She placed her hand on his back to steady her while she climbed out. When he stood back up. She looked intensely in his eyes. He threw the dress on the back of the couch and grabbed her. He kissed her and his hands caressed her naked back. She was running her hands through his hair. He whispered would it be okay tonight. She said the doctor said gentle lovemaking was okay. He grabbed her and carried her to bed. He climbed on top of her still dressed. She reached up and unbuttoned his shirt and pulled it out of his pants. He leaned down to kiss her she brought his body down to connect with her bare breast and his chest. She wanted him next to her. He pulled back long enough to loosen his belt and she was there taking his pants down. She giggled. He smiled. Then he laid her back down and gently made love to her. As their naked bodies united she wanted no one else, her heart was his, it always has been. He held her feeling her succumbing to his body, and he knew she loved him, and he loved her with all his heart.

Christmas morning -- Hunter came in finding his parents asleep. "Hey, wake up! It's Christmas!"
Hunter give mommy and daddy time to dress and we will go down to the tree together. Do you want to wake up Aunt Nickie and Chris?"
He went running. They all with their hair tousled made it down to the tree. The gifts were wonderful. Then Nickie remembered that she had Richard's in the room. She went to get it for Beth. She opened it quietly. It was a book of their times together on the beach, at the cottage and the lighthouse. The card was signed, "Beth, my only love, from yours Richard." Beth put the card and the book with her other gifts. She leaned back into John who was sitting behind her. She rubbed his leg, letting him know she was still with him. He caressed her arms letting her know he was still there for her. While Hunter played Beth told him that they would be back they were going to take their showers. He waved to them and went back playing. It was an hour before they all arrived back for breakfast brunch. The day was spent relaxing and everyone enjoined the day. Nickie and Beth were breaking the ice between them even more now.

Thanksgiving Weekend part Ten

Beth was finally released from the infirmary and went back to her room. She saw a laptop near the chair, once she was settled in her bed she asked John to give it to her thinking Nickie had brought it from the lighthouse. To her surprise it was not hers but Nickie's and she was writing her blog. ....Tonight was so magical, the whole acting as Richard's date took a whole new meaning. We came back to the room and I usually go in the adjoining room but not this night. Richard poured me a drink and we sat on the small couch together. He had his arm around me. I do not know what happened next but he was kissing me. Slowly and gently then he stood up and held out his hand. I took it and he walked me around to the dressing area, he unzipped the dress and slowly took off one shoulder at a time kissing me from the neck down. Then he let the dress drop down to my waist. He stood behind me and caressed my breasts until I was taking off the dress as fast as I could. When I turned around he was already undressed. He took my hand again and held me close, kissing my face, my neck and my lips. He directed me to the bed. He was always in control. The passion I felt while he was caressing me was only the tip of the iceberg. He spent time taking care of my every need. We were moving as one, I said quietly, "Richard, Richard." He was in his last passionate thrust and I heard, "Beth, then Beth." I never mentioned it to him afterward, he never said anything about it. This was our first night together. The rest of the trip when we made love he never said her name again, but he also never said mine. I want to tell Beth but I do not know how.....



Beth let out a gasp. John saw her crying and was on the bed next to her in a flash.

"What is it," he asked. She pointed at the words on the computer. He gasped, "Was this how he was with you? Did you ever write something like this about me?"

Beth smiled weakly, "Yes, many times I have written our love making like this. But did you see what he said ? He said my real name, the name you call me, my birth name. How does he know about this? What does he know about my life?"

"Does it bother you that Nickie slept with him?"

"Oh, yeah, he slept with her....."

A knock on the door. John said, "Come in."

Nickie came in smiling until she saw the computer.

Beth looked at her, "I am sorry I thought you had brought my computer from the lighthouse. I did not know it was yours."

Chris walked in while she talked. She continued, "I read what you were writing."

"Please don't."

Beth looked at her with a sinister smile. One that Nickie had never seen. Chris looked confused. Then he realized that Beth had something on Nickie. He just stared at Nickie.

"Oh, my dear friend, didn't you think to stop before you "loved" someone that supposedly loves me, your supposed best friend who is in hiding because of being attacked. What were you thinking when he was caressing you it definitely wasn't our friendship. But how did you feel when he said my name? He never said your name while he "loved" you did he. Believe me when I say he only said my name when I was with him." She stopped in her rant, realizing John was near her. She put the computer in hibernate, closed it and pushed it over to Nickie.
John went over to Chris and said, "Let's leave them to talk this out." They left.

Chris was asking John what it was all about as they were leaving. They went to the bar to get a drink. They didn't care that it was only ten in the morning. John explained that it looks like Nickie and Beth both have slept with Richard. Beth is more upset that he knows about her past then Nickie sleeping with him.

Nickie took the computer slowly from the bed and put it up. She couldn't blame Beth for being mad. She looked at Beth, "I am sorry but I have worked so close with him that I started falling for him. The sex was great."

Beth looked at her, "I am sorry I spouted off that way. But why? Richard he was off limits like Chris is to me? How does he know about my other name? What will you do if I go back to him?"

Nickie was taken back by that last comment. "He knows about it all." She said this to hurt Beth in part and also hoping that Beth won't want him back. "It is alright if you sleep with Chris. I don't care."

Beth smiled, "Really, I can sleep with him? How will you feel when you read about his muscular arms around me? So you told Richard? Did you tell him so you could have sex with him?"

"No, he found out by reading an article about the attackers. He asked me why they called the woman in the picture Beth. He thought she must have been your cousin or something. Chris is off limits to you. I can't say I would never sleep with Richard if the chance comes my way. But I will not go looking for him either."

"You do know if we were both in the room he would pick me, not you, he loves me," Beth said.

Nickie was taken back at first. Then she realized Beth was right, Richard would pick her if he thought he could have her. Nickie thought she would find a way to make him think he wouldn't have a chance. She smiled to herself. Then her smile faded. She saw Beth pick up her phone and made a call.
"Hi, Richard, it is me Beth. Yes, Nickie arrived safely. No, she hasn't given me your gift yet. Yes, I do want to see you again. Richard, I must tell you they had to do an emergency hysterectomy. I know, it made me sad too. Yes, it is good we have Hunter. Yes, I am happy that we can go home after the holidays. Yes, I will call you when I get back. I really want to see you too. Yes, I love you.. Oh, Richard, thank you. I miss you too."

Nickie's stomach fell to her feet. Beth was not so innocent.

Beth smiled, "I am sorry but it is my decision whether I end it with him, not yours. Enjoy him in bed. But remember I was his first and I will be there again. Just remember tonight when Chris takes his strong arms around you and brings you closer to him. Think of what you would think if you knew he had held me the same way. It will be my decision whether I leave Richard for you to take or not."

The room seemed a little tense when the boys came back. Chris went up to Nickie and put his arm around her. "Come on let's leave them alone for awhile."
Nickie looked at him. "Okay, that sounds like a plan. I think I want to go lay down myself. "

Chris smiled,"I hope that means with me."
They left.
John laid down beside her, "Are you okay?"
She snuggled up to him. "When did the doctor say we could have sex again? I really want you now."
John smiled, "that was a provocative read wasn't it?"
"Yes, it was. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. It was just like she wanted to take my men away from me. I am just getting you back and I don't know about Richard. But I couldn't just let him go. Do you think I am bad?"
"No, you have been through a lot. You have had your world go upside down. I am just happy you want me back."
Beth smiled, "I love you" and moved closer to her husband.
Chris followed Nickie back to the room. Nickie looked at him, "Does it bother you that I slept with Richard while I was in Italy?"
"No, just as long as you want me while I am here." Then he took her into his muscular arms. As he held her she was falling into his clutches when Beth popped in her head. She looked at him, "have you ever slept with Beth?"
"No, why? Should I?"
"No, you shouldn't I was just thinking of something she said." They continued with their lovemaking. Afterward she thought, "Christmas was going to be fun this year. Would she ever make up with Beth? Then for a moment she realized that even though the sex with Richard was good, her friendship was more important to her."
She dressed and went to see Beth. John was leaving the room. He let her go in. "Beth," Nickie began, "I am sorry. I won't see him unless you say it is okay."
Beth smiled, "thanks I just need time to see if I am ready to leave him behind. I knew he sleeps with other women I just didn't think it would be one of my friends. Besides it does bother me more that he said my real name. But I guess it did hurt you when he said my name,too? "
Nickie agreed. They both knew if Nickie had the chance to jump in bed with him again she would. But they also knew he would leave Nickie for Beth anytime. The women were content to understand they were at a stalemate. But they still had their friendship.

Thanksgiving Weekend Part Nine

Nickie, John, and Rand sat at the table with Beth. The talk centered around Nickie flying out with Richard to Italy. They needed to corner Francesca in the open for the Polizia to interview her and for Richard to identify if anyone connected with her were the ones that Richard met up with in Scotland. Beth perked up, "Nickie when you are in the public eye Richard is very polite and a gentleman. You will need to look as if you adore him, take his arm when you walk, listen attentively. But at night you ".... her voice trailed off.."It does not matter you will not need to know that."

John asked, "What doesn't she need to know?"

Beth panicked, "Nothing it really, it wasn't really note worthy." She loked pale and her eyes were big. She faltered, " I will go get my coat. Nickie, there was a shop that had the perfect clothes you will need for the trip." Then she walked off.

Nickie looked at John, "What was that all about?"

He watched her walk away, " I honestly thought she would blow me off and tell me it was just between you two. I am worried, she seems to be having a hard time now."

"It will take time, John. She went back to the room by herself."

"Did you see her pause?"

"Yes, why?"

"She was waiting for the helper to follow her."

"Oh, here she comes."

Beth said, "I am ready."
Nickie and Beth shopped the rest of the afternoon. Nickie could not get her to talk much about John or Richard. Nickie came to dinner with Rand. They said their good byes. She told Beth that Chris was coming for Christmas.

Nickie left the next morning. Richard was anxious to ear about Beth. He bombarded Nickie with questions once they were seated on the plane. Nickie told him that he just needed to be patient and give her time.

The next few days. Beth walked more but she still remained close to John. Hunter was having fun playing with toys. Nickie on the other hand was enjoying herself with Richard. She almost felt like the girl in My Fair Lady. Beth had found clothes that made her feel amazing. they went to shows and out to dinner where Francesca was reported to be. After a few days of no sightings when they were walking back to the hotel one night and Francesca was getting out of the car. Richard mentioned this to the couple behind them. Richard and Nickie walked closer to her. Nickie walked up close beside her and whispered, "You know John doesn't even ask about how you are." she jolted. Nickie continued," he just wants you out of his family's life."

The Polizia told them later that she wouldn't serve time but there would be fines. She was cooperating and giving them all the names and locations of who she worked with. We have already gave them to the U.S.

Nckie was able to talk to Tom from the airport when they arrived back in the U.S. He told her that Chuck had been caught near the country house. The cousin was in custody. John could come home and back to work. He didn't expect hm before the New year though. He did say that Beth did not have to testify. They would be charged but since they escaped and committed crimes that the death penalty would be re-instated from their previous conviction. The cousin was going to spend his days in solitary in a federal prison. Nothing to worry about none of these people would be seen again. He also shed some light that if Francesca ever contacted anyone connected to John her deal would end and she would serve jail time.

Nickie and Richard arrived back in town. Richard offered his spare bedroom. Nickie agreed. She did not want to stay at the lighthouse alone and Tyler had already left the restaurant. The next day when Nickie was getting ready to leave. Richard handed her a gift for Beth. "It is something that she wanted before all this happened."

Chris met Nickie at the airport. They had not seen each other since Nickie had walked out . they chatted on the plane bout basic stuff, weather, health and etc. When they arrived at the small airport and were finally alone. Chris apologized for forcing a response to his question. Nickie apologized for storming off without talking this through. He asked about John and Beth. Nickie field him in on the basics. They arrived at the pole. John and Beth were sitting cuddled in front of the fire. Beth looked up and smiled. Nickie and Chris joined them . the waiter brought them sandwiches and drinks. Nickie told them that everyone was in custody. John and Beth looked relieved especially the part they were in for life and she didn't have to testify. they chatted and caught each other up with the latest news. Then Beth was getting tired so they headed for their room. Chris looked at Nickie,"Wow, she doesn't look well. She is so pale but she perked up knowing those guys are behind bars."

Nickie left Chris alone for a few minutes. Chris looked at her quizzically. "Oh, I just asked the doctor to go an check on her."
"Good idea."
The doctor came back in a hurry. Nickie looked at him. He said quickly, "I am in a hurry. She is bleeding internally. I have to get ready for her."
Chris and Nickie grabbed their stuff and followed the doctor. They met John there. He was mumbling,"Why didn't I make her go to the doctor. Stupid! Stupid!"
"John it is okay! You are too close to her. She wasn't telling you anything was wrong, why would you tell her to go to the doctor?"
John slumped in the chair. They sat there quietly waiting. An hour passed, then 30 minutes. The doctor came out wiping his brow looking sad. He sat down by John, "We had to do a hysterectomy. I am sorry, she was bleeding too much. I am so sorry that she can't have anymore children. She knew this was a possibility before she went under. She should be waking up now, you need to go in and be with her."
John straightened up. He stood tall and walked into her room.

Nickie asked the doctor,"do you think she will be out for Christmas Eve?"

The doctor replied, "Yes, it is in a few days. I think she will be able to enjoy the evening up to a point."

They walked into the room. John was sitting beside her holding her hand. She was just waking up. She smiled at him and said weakly, "At least we have Hunter together."

He buried his face in her breast. She began stroking his hair. Nickie touched her hand,"Hey there kid, how are you feeling?"

She smiled, "In a weird way better. It is like some of the pain that I have had is gone. Of course, other pain took its place. But morphine is my friend." She looked up at the i.v.
Chris and Nickie told her they would see her tomorrow.
John leaned down and kissed his Beth. She stroked his face and said, "I love you, but this is all we can do for awhile."
John laughed and he laid in the bed beside her.

Nickie and Chris went back to the room they had last year. Their luggage was already put up. Richard's gift was sitting on the table. Nickie said, "I will take this to her tomorrow."
Chris came up behind her. He began kissing her neck, working his way down her shoulder. His hands stroking her sides. She had forgotten the way he made love to her. She put her hands on his. Her body filling up with the intensity of emotion. She turned to face him. He leaned down and kissed her passionately. She stroked his arms, those muscles. She loosened his belt and his pants. He walked out of them. He picked her up and laid her down on the couch. She spread her legs and he proceeded to make their bodies as one.

Thanksgiving Weekend part eight

Nickie and Tyler at the dinner quietly, it was delicious. They took their drinks and the bottle in front of the fire. Tyler sat down on the floor Nickie sat next to him leaning against his chest, for a few minutes they just watched the fire in silence.
" Richard seems like he is still concerned about Scarlett/Beth," he said breaking his silence.
"Yea, he is. I understand now that she loves him because he loved her without knowing her past. John loves her in spite of her past. I don't know what she will do now."
There was silence again.

"Oh, before I forget I will be leaving my phone here. Will you please leave it on, charge it, and take it to town once in awhile? I would also like you to call Richard once a day."
He looked puzzled, "How will I call you?"
"I will give you my new number. We picked up new phones while we were out. That way I can still reach everyone and wont be traced. Instead they will think I am still here."

he looked at her with his intense blue eyes. She knew it was time to shut up, as he leaned into kiss her. She didn't have to worry, her mind went not to Richard but stayed with Tyler. It wasn't hard as she ran her hand up the back of his head, his hair was short, not long like Richard's. the kissing intensified, they slid down the chair and she succumbed to him. He pulled off his shirt then hers. He laid back down on top of her as they kissed some more she began to take charge. They rolled over for her to be on top. She worked on his belt and loosened his pants. The snow began to fall. Two lovers in their own world, no clue of the storm brewing outside.

Meanwhile, John and Beth walked around the area. It was a nice long walk. John watched Beth, she grimaced every once in awhile and walked slower. He regretted working on the case with Overmeyer and having an affair with Francesca. But that started back when he first me Beth.

Beth looked up at him. She touched his face softly. He held her hand there.They began walking again. They looked at the store windows everything was decorated, simple but elegant. They talked about Hunter and Christmas. Also about buying gifts for Nickie and her man, whomever it would be. All he walking made them hungry, which made them laugh. They stopped n a little shop. Beth ordered a grilled ham and cheese with hot chocolate. While they waited for the food Beth placed her hand on the table. John reached over to hold her hand. They sat and looked at each other. She shied away when the waitress brought the food. He smiled at her, thinking how there was still her innocence still there. She smiled back at him. The food was delicious, they talked about the rest of their day. When they left she took his hand. He felt almost like they were dating again. She was slower walking back. They stopped into see Hunter on the way back to the room. Hunter was having so much fun. Beth told Hunter that she was going to go lay down but would be back later to eat dinner with him tonight. He hugged her and kissed her on the cheek. It was hard for her to get back up. Hunter was back playing and the workers blocked his view as John helped her up. They headed back to the room. Beth undressed and put on a a gown. She asked John to lay with her until she fell asleep. He did then he quietly moved off the bed to his extra bag that he brought. He unzipped the bag, it was full of money. Before he left New York after he found about the attack he had withdrawn a few thousand just in case. He always had his "extra" money in safe places and his job money they lived off of. So he wasn't lying to Beth, not really. So he left. He went back to one store in particular where her eyes lit up for the special garnet necklace and earrings He also picked up a comfortable sweat pantsuit set. So she would be able to have less pressure on her back and waist. She was tossing and turning when he got back. He climbed on the bed and started stroking her hair. She stared calming down after a few minutes. She opened her eyes his face close. She reached up to him to kiss him. He started to pull away. She held on with her arms around his neck, she whispered, "take this memory away."
He kissed her with tears building up in his eyes. He whispered back, "I love you." He kept telling her as he removed her clothing. Talking softly to her, he gently laid on top of her and caressed her side. She winced. He asked, "Do you want me to stop?"
"No, I need to be loved again."
He quietly kissed her down the neck. Taking care to love her like he always had. Today even more than before. They came together as one both with tears streaming down their faces, saying " I Love you." As they laid back on the bed she laid her head on his chest. She looked at him," I know the attack was not your fault. When you met Francesca I was in hiding, still in my shell. Neither of us knew my former attacker and your old lover would meet." She stopped talking and moved in a position to kiss him. She sat on top of him rubbing and kissing his chest. He knew she was in pain, moving as she was but he also knew the emotional pain was what she was trying to erase. She continued kissing him. She was n control now. he decided to enjoy the ride. This time as she laid next to him. He stroked her hair. They woke up in time to get ready for dinner. Beth enjoyed putting on sweat pants she was still tender where she was kicked and punched.
Hunter was already waiting for them. They sat together. he talked up a storm. He loved it here. The others loved to be with him too. That night they roasted marshmallows, drank hot chocolate and sang songs. They were back in the their rooms by eight. While they were talking about what to do tonight, there was a knock on the door. John opened it and there was Nickie!
John hugged her. Beth joined them in the sitting area. "How are you feeling," Nickie asked Beth.
"Better, " she looked at John and smiled, " I still am sore, though. How was your stay with Tyler?"
Nickie blushed, "Good. are you up to hearing what I know or do you want me to tell John, first?"
Beth moved closer to John. "I am ready." He put his arm around her.
Nickie told them all of what she had found out. She told John about Tom Winters and what he had said. Nickie was hungry so they walked down to the kitchen. Nickie was thinking how she missed Tyler. Then Rand came around the corner. Both of their eyes lit up. While Nickie ate John asked her when he could call Tom Winters?
Nickie looked at Rand, "Is there a phone that we can use to call out that is not traceable?"
Rand answered, " I will ask Santa if we can use his."
Rand left, he was back in a flash. "Yes, he can call tonight because it will be afternoon there. Just meet Santa in his office in fifteen minutes."
John headed over. Beth stayed with Rand and Nickie.
Nickie didn't know what to say. Beth spoke up first, "How is Richard?"
"He is fine. He is really trying to find who attacked you and get them put behind bars. He does love you."
Beth said, "Oh, does he know about my past?"
Nickie looked at her, "He knows they attacked you before but he doesn't know everything." Nickie thought she couldn't be the one that ended this before he had a chance to prove himself.
"Oh, that is good then. He doesn't need to know my past. It is just that when I am with him Beth never existed."
John came back, "I talked to Tom, it seems that they have a sting operation going and it includes the guard at the prison and Overmeyer. It is going down now. They have word that our house in the country had an intruder. He was gone before they got there. Jason is under their care. After this sting operation and Overmeyer and his cousin are put away we should be able to go home. Though it will be hard to get Hunter away from here. They haven't connected Francesca yet to this. I told them what you told us about the cell phone scam. They are going to track them down and get her connected. But she won't be put away for long, just an attempt to get rid of my wife and son."

"You want to get back to work, don't you,"asked Beth.

"Yes and no," he responded. "I want to be with you but I want to be in charge finding the bad people not in hiding from them. But I want you and Hunter by my side always."

"I think I want to go to bed. It is getting late for me," Beth said.

Nickie said, "Well, I am still awake since I came basically left this morning and arrived this afternoon which was evening to you." She looked at Rand, "I think we have some things to catch up on."

"Good night" they all said.

When Beth was out of ear shot. Nickie called Richard on her new phone. "I have arrived safe. By the way she asked about you. I told her that you know they attacked her before but not that you know her past. She wants to keep it that way. I just wanted to give you a chance."

"Thanks," Richard said. "How does she look? Is she okay?"

"She looks good. She gets tired easily. John does take care of her. Well, I have to go. Looks like they are going to do a raid and take some of the players down. Overmeyer and Francesca are not among them."

"Sounds good," Richard said distractedly. "I will talk with you tomorrow."

"Good night."

She hung up the phone and looked back at Rand. He said, "You amaze me. I never thought you were the sensitive type."
She just smiled.

Thanksgiving Weekend Seven

John went back to Beth. He sat down beside her. She looked up, "What was so important?"

"They caught Jason Meister but Chuck Overmeyer is still on the loose."

Beth tensed up, "Chuck Overmeyer? Did we bring anyone from your job with us?"

"No, just Hunter."

"Don't you have an Overmeyer that works for you?"

"Yes, I do."

"Why, didn't you tell me? He met me and Hunter, if he recognized me.
What were you thinking?"

"He hadn't been in contact with his cousin. He is under investigation for something else. Before I left I told them to keep an eye on him. Beth, you need to understand something when we go back. Everything we have we own. I do not have money elsewhere. Remember that and we will be fine."

Beth was confused. She couldn't understand why he was telling her this now?. "But what about our safety? Will we ever be safe?"

"Yes, we will. He has been watched. He will be put away. Your name and picture will not be printed this time. Don't worry. Beth, once this is over I can tell you where I was for that vacation. I did not cheat on you then. You know when I have cheated."

"Is Hunter safe here?"

"Yes, we all are. Don't worry! I just needed to remind you about our finances. I didn't mean to add to your stress. You have been under a lot of stress. Why don't we go for a walk? Are you up to it?"

"Sure, I need to walk off all this food that I just ate," she said sheepishly.

He looked at his plate and laughed. She had finished his breakfast also. They left for their walk.

Meanwhile, Nickie woke up. Tyler had thrown the blanket over her. Then she saw Richard drinking coffee at the table. He politely looked away whle she gathered her clothing. After her shower she joined them for breakfast.

"So what are you doing today," Tyler asked.

"Well, I am going to go in town and check on some stuff for John. Plus I need to pick up some items before I fly out tomorrow morning."

Richard said, "Can I tag along today? I just need to stop by the house."

Nickie said," Sure that would be okay. I would like the company especially if we go to the police station." She looked at Tyler, " I will be back for dinner."

Richard and Nickie left. Nickie made sure no one was watching them. Once they reached the house Richard went to take a shower while Nickie made some calls. She spoke to Tom Winters, the man John said to call. She told him all that she knew. He thanked her for the information. He told her that they would contact the local police and take care of Jason. She also told him about the lighthouse. He told her to tell John that all was well and that there was movement with the subject in question. All was proceeding as planned. Then he said, tell hm to stay safe."

She thought as she hung up the phone that Jason would not be a problem again.

Richard came down. Nickie thought, no wonder she still likes him. He was a physically fit man, with the distinguished silver hair. but a softness only a man sure of himself could possess. He smiled that geniune smile. She wondered if he could read her mind?

They were going to go to the police station first. Not wanting to run into Jason Meister they called first. The detective on the case said he would meet them at the lighthouse. When they met Tom Landers, he told the policeman that he would not be needed for thirty minutes and to get some lunch. He told them about the interview Jason was very forthcoming. He wanted to make sure that he would not go down for thngs he did not do. Seems they had duped Chuck's cousin and some Italian lady that they would "take care of Beth and Hunter. He laughed telling about what they did to Beth and how he got back at her for her statement at his trial. He laughed through his confession, it was sick. We have put police at each of John's residences. Wish we could talk to him but hs department is so tight lipped. I lpe they have their kid safe because I think that is who Chuck is after. He attacked Beth and took off when the baby was not found. They said their good byes. There would security at the lighthouse until he is caught. Nickie and Richard headed back to town for some lunch. They picked up sandwiches and soup to take back to Richard's house.

"So," in between bites,"they were working with Franseca!"

Nickie swallowed her food, "It seems that way. My brother told me about a computer program where you can text someone using another persons phone number but your own cell phone. I think it is strange, but I think that is what they did to you. When you were in Scotland, you said that you met up with people that knew John. They asked for your number to meet up with you again? Why did you go over to the lighthouse that day?"

'Scarlett or Beth, text me that she would be coming in on Dec. 3rd. So I checked the flights, gave her time to get there then headed over. I wonder if anyone has checked with Fransesca?"

"I wondered that too. I will check with John tomorrow about that when I see him." She looked at her watch, "I need to get back to the restaruant but first I need to get some stuff before I fly out tomorrow."

"I will go with you to get your items and then escort you to the restaurant. If you want I can be available to go to Italy with you? You know I would love to go and see Scarlett but her safety is more important then my questions to be answered."

Nickie looked at him, somehow she thought it would be hard to choose between Richard and John. She was getting a glimpse into Scarlett's mind. She said, "Richard, it was a hard time, a past life that she doesn't even talk about with me. I have learned more by the article that my brother sent, and sadly more of her horror by the interview of her attacker. I think this is something special that John and her have between them."

Nickie took the point when Richard stood up as it was time to leave. She gathered up her stuff. They left together. She thanked him for his help today and went into the restaurant. Tyler looked up when she walked in. He motioned her over. "Tonight we have dinner together in the condo."

Nickie went back up to the condo. She packed her bag for her trip. She wouldn't need much tonight. She smiled to herself. Tyler brought dinner back to the condo. Nickie had poured the wine and lit the candles. They ate and talked about what Nickie had found out. They decided to leave Beth, John, and Richard to themselves and enjoy their night. Nickie thought to herself, hopefully she could get that silver haired man out of her thoughts tonight.

Thanksgiving Weekend Part Six

John woke up. Hunter came bouncing in. He was so excited, just talking about his day ten he said, "Dad, why is mom so white?"

John looked over, he felt Beth and she was cold. He yelled,"NO!" Then he woke up. He reached over and she was gone.
Then he heard her voice. "John, are you okay?" as she walked out of the bathroom.

"Yes, bad dream. How are you feeling?"

She smiled, " I know about bad dreams. I feel better, still sore though. I am ready for breakfast."

He smiled, "Give me a chance to shower and I will go with you."

"Okay,it will take me that long to dress," she laughed.

Meanwhile, Nickie was having dinner with Richard.

"So why didn't you tell me about what happened to her?"

"I couldn't they kept me out of it since I wasn't the spouse. I didn't find out until I got the copy of the file, after they left, he responded.

" Did you see anyone leaving the lighthouse that day? What did you see when you entered the lighthouse?

"The door was open. There was a faint smell that didn't seem right. I yelled for Scarlett, no response. So I started to walk and the smell was greater near the door to the basement. I immediately went out and found the gas line ans shut it down. I covered my mouth with a napkin and went downstairs. I saw her lying on the floor and she was moaning. I carried her up and call 911. When they arrived they checked downstairs, the main floor and the next flight up. He stopped, "you wouldn't think that someone who planned for it to blow up would be up there would you?"

Nickie shook her head no. " I don't think so, we found the gas line cut and a candle that had burned out knocked under the furnace. I think he attacked her then lit the candle. It probably blew out before anything happened."

The ate quietly then Nickie received a text. She opened the text and looked at the pictures of four young men. They were four young men that were sentenced in a Pennsylvania case. She put her phone down to finish eating. A man was seated close by. Nickie almost choked when seeing the man. Richard was about to ask something about John and Nickie shook her head vigorously no. She showed him under the table the text message and motioned to the man sitting at the table. Then they finished their dinner and left. Nickie took Richard up to the condo. He was such a gentleman that she thought under any other situation she would like to get to know him better.

Nickie called her brother, "One of these men is here! Yes, okay. I think he is staying at the lighthouse. Okay, I will. Thanks!"
She put the phone down and realized that Richard was standing there confused.

"The girl in the bonnet in that article looked a lot like Scarlett. Is it her sister, Beth?"

Nickie realized that Scarlett had never told him that her name really was Beth and what had happened years ago. She began, " I don't know if I am the one to tell you since she hasn't, but most everything is in the article. She was attacked by four men and her husband was murdered in front of her. She was Amish."

Richard collapsed in the chair. Nickie didn't know what to do so she offered him a drink. She needed to stay coherent or Tyler might just find her with Richard. He rubbed the cold drink against his forehead and just said "that explains some of her innocence I love so much. So this man came and attacked her not the Italian vixen? Do they need to be in hiding?"

"Yes, they do. I am not sure we can still count out the vixen or not. Someone helped him escape from prison, someone told him where Beth was and when she would be there."

"What did your brother say to do?"

"Oh, he was calling it in to the police of the sighting. They will be waiting to see him at the lighthouse. He said to stay low for awhile just in case noticed us leaving. He also said there were two that escaped. So they need to find the other one also. I need to call Tyler and let him know."

Richard poured himself another drink and sat near the fire. He started attending to it, just gazing in it."

Nickie called Tyler while watching Richard. She felt so sorry for him. Tyler looked out into the dining area and the man was still there. He was finishing up and going to let the team finish cleaning up. He would be up in a minute. Nickie put the phone down. She was glad that Tyler was coming back because she wanted to go and run her fingers through Richard's hair and hold to let him know someone cared. Before she could, Tyler was home. Nickie kissed him long and hard. He was amazed at the attention in front of Richard. Richard ignored them and continued gazing into the fire. Nickie finally let him go and realized that she needed to get a hold of John somehow.. then she remembered the walkie talkie she had to communicate with the big guy. She went into the other bedroom to make her call.

"Hey, it is me. I need to talk to John is that possible?"

"For you my dear, it is. How are you doing? Are you being good this year?"

"Yes, I am. Thank you."

The big guy had motioned for his worker to go and get John.

John and Scarlett were eating breakfast when the worker came in. John you are wanted by Santa in the communication room."

John stood up and told Beth that he would return to wait for him there. John hurried to see why he was needed. Santa handed over the walkie talkie to John, "it's Nickie, she needed to talk to you."

"John, we found one of the men that brutalized Scarlett a long time ago has escaped. Actually two of them. The police have been alerted and will probably get one of them tonight."

"Good, when I saw the shoe print bruises on her body, I knew they were out. I was so frustrated I couldn't do anything. Which one will they get tonight?"

"A I think it is Jason Meister and Chuck Overmeyer is still out there."

"Wow Jason really hated Beth because she remembered what he had done to her. Chuck tried to strangle her. So they are both violent. How did they escape?"

"We are not sure. I still think that someone in Scotland got to you and Richard. They must have coordinated this."

"It must be connected to Franscesca. I am sorry I ever knew her."

"Well, I just wanted you to know that we are hunting them now. It is a good thing that you are hidden. No one can GPS the North Pole and find you. I just wanted you to know."

"Nickie, thanks. The doctor's here took pictures of the shoe print bruises on her so we can match that. But I don't know where the rape kit went. Can you check on that for me?

"I will. See you in a few days. Hopefully, I will have good news."

Nickie went back into the living room. Richard was almost passed out. Tyler helped him to a bedroom and situated in the bed. Then he went back into Nickie. She had poured two drinks and laid the blankets down on the floor in front of the fire. Tyler turned the lights down low. He sat beside her and asked, "What hit Richard so hard?"
Nickie showed him the article. "He didn't know about this." She let Tyler read it and he put it down, sighing. She leaned in for a kiss. She was thinking of consoling Richard as she pushed Tyler back and opened his shirt. She moved like a woman with a mission. The mission was to relieve some tension. She laid on top of him for awhile until he took over and rolled on top of her making sure all of her tension was released. They laid there trying to catch their breath when Nickie's brother called.

She answered, "yes, breathlessly."

"Hey, just wanted to tell you they got Jason back into custody. But they do not know where Chuck is. They are going to interogate him for the rest of the night. They have someone stationed outside the lighthouse just in case. Seems that Jason knows a lot about John and Beth. Tell them to keep Hunter under watch where ever they are. He was also one they were supposed to kill."

Nickie gulped, "Okay, I will let them know. Keep me updated. Thanks"

Tyler looked up at her, "good news?"

"Partially, they have one in custody but the other one is still out there. I guess that Hunter was also supposed to be killed. I am going to have John investigate all of his employees that work with Hunter. I will have to call Rand."

Thanksgiving Weekend Part Five

John ordered some food and took the tray back to the room. She was talking in her sleep. "Stop! Don't hurt Daniel! Please leave him alone, don't hurt my baby! Daniel!!"

"Beth? Beth, wake up. You are talking in your sleep," John said, thinking that the nightmares have started again."

Beth looked at him. She tried to smile but the pain was still vivid. Then she remembered that she had been kicked again. Her look made John put the food on the table. He climbed in bed and gently lifted her in his arms. She buried her face in his chest. He so wanted to call out he needed a favor. He needed them gone!

She looked up at him, "I lost another baby, haven't I?"


"Yes, he said quietly, "seven weeks." They both quietly counted back. John didn't know if it made it any easier knowing it was his baby or not. They laid there for awhile.

"Beth, we will find him and he will stay in jail this time," John said. He was thinking though only if he isn't 6 feet under first.

Beth smiled weakly. "I want some food now."

They ate quietly. Beth hoping not to fall asleep but wanting the pain to go away, physically and mentally. She looked over at John he was in another place.

"I would like to change out of this hospital gown. Would you help me?"

He nodded.

"My night gown is in the bag."

He retrieved it and untied her gown. She let it fall and he gasped, a full shoe mark bruise on her back. "Did they take a picture of your back?"

"Yes."

he helped her with the gown. She laid down again, "Does Nickie know to stay away from the lighthouse? He will keep coming back, he told me so when he was kicking me."

"Are you remembering? And I told Rand to tell her."

"Yes, I remember why my head didn't get bruised. He punched me in my stomach and knocked me down. I grabbed my head as he shoved me down to...to.. rape me. Oh, please tell me they gave me the stuff to kill a rapist chances of making a baby?

"I think so. They did a rape kit on you."

She turned and buried her face in her pillow. John laid beside her and stroked her face. She rolled over and looked at him.."How can you still look at me?"

"Oh, Beth, I love you so. What he did was awful but he did it to you. You have nothing to be ashamed of." He leaned down and kissed her passionately..


Meanwhile, Nickie woke up. It was a beautiful night. She could see the lighthouse from the condo. There seemed to be someone there. So she called security for the island and asked them to check it out. Then she went back to sleep.

Next morning Tyler had to go to the restaurant. He made plans with Nickie to meet him for lunch at the condo.. Nickie decided to go to the lighthouse to check it out. She was half way there when she finally turned her phone back on. She saw the message. She was listening to the message while she walked. She stopped dead in her tracks. The hair on her neck raised. The message was from Rand, "Stay away from the light! New info about the Light.. Please call me!!! Don't go towards the light!" She took the phone down and started walking towards the sea. There was someone walking from the lighthouse. Her heart was racing. How could she get back to the restaurant. She was too far away. She didn't know what to do. She put her hands in her coat jacket and prepped the pepper spray. The man kept walking past her towards the restaurant. He had a hat on and his face down so she couldn't see his face. Now what should she do, go back to the restaurant following him or go towards the lighthouse where the other new info might be. Rand had his reasons. She waited for the man to get ahead of her far enough that she could get away from him if she has to. She kept looking over her shoulder she just wanted to be in the condo. She went the back way and went up to the condo. Nickie locked all the doors and windows then called Rand.

"I got your message. Tell me what is new with the polar bears?"

"Hi there the slopes are nice. Can't wait until you get here! Very sad news about the polar bears. I will tell you when you get here. My friend really wants to talk to you. Something he wants checked out. But he was emphatic about staying away from the light."

"I saw a light last night and called security. I saw a man coming from the light and is here at the restaurant today. I will be there midweek. Thanks for the update."

Tyler came up after lunch. He brought some food with him. Nickie let him in after identifying him. She had told him about the man and the message from Rand.

He had a man that came in that was new to the island. He had taken off his coat and one of the waiters noticed prison tats on his arm. They were commenting about it in the kitchen. Tyler said he told them he was the new caretaker at the lighthouse. I think you need to tell Richard, Bailey and Chris to stay away.

Nickie gulped. She had not thought about them being in any danger. She called them from Tyler's land line. Richard was in shock. He asked how they were doing? Nickie was brief and said they were fine. Chris sounded concerned and really nice..Nickie asked him to spend Christmas with her, he jumped at the chance. Bailey was still at sea. He thanked her for the info. She could hear a woman in the background.

Tyler put the food down on the table. Nickie sat down. The food was delicious. The dessert was even better. Of course, it was Tyler. Nickie couldn't believe that here she was in the nude with a gorgeous man as the wind blew a cold winter storm in. Tyler did not want to leave her. He called to the restaurant to make sure the man went back to the lighthouse. He had. Nickie locked the condo behind him. Tyler had put more wood on the fire. Nickie grabbed the medical chart that Richard gave her when she took them to the airport. Richard had not been forthcoming. she called her brother and told him what she was reading. He told her he would find out what he could about her friend's past.

Nickie decided it would be okay to go down to the restaurant for dinner. She called Richard and invited him then called for reservations for a private table in the back. She didn't want to be overheard about what she was going to ask him.

Thanksgiving Weekend Part Four

He leaned down to kiss her, his hands on both sides of her head supporting him. Their bodies met and the entered into a night of bliss.
Meanwhile, Beth just wanted to lay down. John was melancholy. When they reached their room he laid the luggage down. Then sat down on the step with his head in his hands. Beth kicked off her shoes and laid her coat on the bed, her face grimacing with each move. She noticed John sitting there on the step with his head in his hands. She stood in front of him waning to yell at him but he looked so sad. She asked quietly, "Are you alright?"

He looked at her, with her coat off he could see her arms were slightly bruised. He felt so bad. he couldn't talk to her.

She sad a little brusquely, "Were you involved in this furnace mishap? Do you want me out of the picture?"

He looked astonished, the tears fell down his face.
Scarlett stumbled she didn't know what to do were these tears of sorrow or guilt?

He reached out to touch her. She cringed with pain. He gently lifted her top, there was a bruise that looked like a shoe print. He gasped. He finally said, "No, I am not involved with her or these attempts I love you."

She looked at him. She said, " I don't feel good."

He guided her to the bed and called the doctor. It was weird to have a doctor that had to stand on a stool to see his patient.

He looked at her stomach and told them he needed to take her to the infirmary to take some pictures and x-rays. John could see that she had been kicked repeatedly. Something about this reminded him of another time. But as he looked at her he thought to himself that it couldn't be happening again. He thought he was going to be sick.

The doctor pulled him aside. "Listen, I was able to see the doctor's notes from the tests at the hospital. Did you know she lost the baby?" From the look John gave him he knew that he had not been told. So he continued, "It also looks that a rape kit was taken, I am not sure where the results are being sent."

John collapsed against the door. The doctor said he would give her some pain killers and that she would be groggy but he could take her back to the room. "The nurse will help you." Back in the room Beth settled back into bed. Hunter came bouncing in and sat on the bed telling about the fun day he was having. He kissed her and told her that he would be back later. Beth looked at John he was staring at the door where Hunter had left through. Beth reached over and touched his arm, it startled him.

She looked at him, "Could I have something to eat? This pain killer is giving me an upset stomach."

he reached over and kissed her forehead "I will go get something for you. Would you like some of the baked potato soup?"

"Yes," she responded and laid back and closed her eyes.

John ran into Rand , "Hey, when is Nickie calling or coming? I need to talk to her. There are some people I want her to check on."

"She will be here next week. Do you want me to call her again?"

"Would you? Tell her to be careful and have security check on the lighthouse. Tell her not to go to the lighthouse alone!"

"Will do." Rand went and immediately called Nickie. No, answer so he left a encrypted message. He just hoped she heard it before going back to the light

Thanksgiving Weekend Part Three

Nickie and Tyler went back to his condo after they sent John, Beth, Hunter off. they sat on the porch watching the ocean waves.Nickie moved closer to Tyler since the cold wind was blowing.

Tyler looked at Nickie,"So that was tense this morning between John and Richard wasn't it?"

"Yes, neither of them trust the other one. Did you see Beth's face? She looked tired and she whispered to me this morning asking if I thought it may have been someone out for me?"

Tyler responded, "really? I hadn't thought about that angle."

"I did, but it doesn't fit. Bailey and Chris are not that mad at me. I just wonder if John is involved. When I first investigated him I was really impressed, so much so that I basically pushed him on Scarlett. I wonder why she was hesitant? "Nickie faded into memory. Her phone rang, both her and Tyler jumped. She put it on speaker phone.

" Hi, sweetie. Iceland is beautiful. The sky is clear with a few black clouds and blue skies behind them. When are you coming?"

"Hi, there handsome, I should be there by midweek. Are the polar bears in their mating season?

"Seems to be the season. But there seems to have been a few up roars from them lately. Well, need to get back to work, we will go skiing when you get here."

"See you soon, bye."

Nickie and Tyler went back to his condo after they sent John, Beth, Hunter off. they sat on the porch watching the ocean waves.Nickie moved closer to Tyler since the cold wind was blowing.

Tyler looked at Nickie,"So that was tense this morning between John and Richard wasn't it?"

"Yes, neither of them trust the other one. Did you see Beth's face? She looked tired and she whispered to me this morning asking if I thought it may have been someone out for me?"

Tyler responded, "really? I hadn't thought about that angle."

"I did, but it doesn't fit. Bailey and Chris are not that mad at me. I just wonder if John is involved. When I first investigated him I was really impressed, so much so that I basically pushed him on Beth. I wonder why she was hesitant? "Nickie faded into memory. Her phone rang, both her and Tyler jumped. She put it on speaker phone.

" Hi, sweetie. Iceland is beautiful. The sky is clear with a few black clouds and blue skies behind them. When are you coming?"

"Hi, there handsome, I should be there by midweek. Are the polar bears in their mating season?

"Seems to be the season. But there seems to have been a few up roars from them lately. Well, need to get back to work, we will go skiing when you get here."

"See you soon, bye."

"What was that about?"

"Oh, it seems that John and Beth have been fighting again. But there are more bruises than we knew about."

"Well, that is interesting but you know what from what I heard you will be leaving me this week. So let's make some dinner and enjoy are evening together. I like John and Beth but we can't help them anymore tonight."

Nickie's eyes lit up and she nodded. She loved cooking with Tyler. The had Loin of Pork roasted with Balsamic vinegar, rosemary, red onion and red wine, with lemon roasted potatoes and garlic braised kale. She loved being the kitchen with him. After
dinner they curled up by the fire. Nickie woke up next to Tyler he had fallen asleep also. She began stroking his face softly, thinking about lucky she was tonight. He began moving around as his lips caressed his neck. he rolled her on her back.

Thanksgiving Weekend Part Two

Bambie left on Friday with Scott, Matthew on Saturday back to undisclosed location. Tyler called Nickie and she flew to the lighthouse that night. I waited until Sunday night. I promised that I would be back by Tuesday to watch the tree lighting. I started out the door to leave to my relief Richard text me that he was stuck in Scotland until 12-3. So I went back inside and said to John, "changed my mind I will leave on 12-3." John looked at me, his phone ran, we both looked at it and saw it from out of country and it went straight to blocked call. He threw the phone on the chair and picked me up and laid me on the couch. Hunter was asleep, the fire roaring, a very romantic night. He poured a couple of drinks, then my phone rang, it was Nickie.

"Where are you?"

"Change of plans I will be there on the third, seems that someone is held up in Scotland. Will you be okay?"

"Oh, yes, I will be fine. I have Tyler keeping an eye on me. See you on the third."

I hung up the phone and put it next to John's. Then I crawled over to him. His phone rang again, I received another text. But tonight was ours. I could feel that he felt the same way by the way he grabbed me. The weekend was wonderful. We stayed in the whole time.

Dec. 2nd

It is raining on and off today. Hunter is excited to see the tree lit tonight. Hunter loved watching the skaters and seeing the tree. John will stay with Hunter in New York until Sunday.

Dec 3rd
I really don't care if I see Richard now but I promised Nickie I would go out. I arrived at the lighthouse and it was freezing. So I put my stuff in the room and went down to light the furnace. I remember a loud sound then waking up in Richard's bed at his house. I started to move but I was very sore and something on my head.

"That's okay don't move yet," he gentle man said. He removed something from the face and head. It turned out to be a cold compress. I slowly opened my eyes to Richard smiling.

"What time is it?"

"It's 8 p.m."

I moaned as I tried to get up.

"Just tell me what you need and I will do it."

"I need to call John and tell him I am okay."

"I already have. He will be down tomorrow after the business meeting and he will bring Hunter."

"Thank you. How bad am I hurt? What happened at the lighthouse. Is it still standing? I am hungry."

He laughed, "Let me go get the dinner that was prepared and I will answer your questions. "
The food was delicious. Richard began to tell me that he found me passed out about 10feet away from the furnace. the smell of gas lingering. He had smelled it at the door and turned off the gas at the meter. He had pulled me out and called the ambulance. At the hospital they took x-rays and ran some tests. I hadn't broken anything. I guess I became coherent enough to leave in Richard's care.

The door burst open. "What the hell happened, asked Nickie. "Are you okay? looking at me. I nodded. She looked at Richard, "Is she okay?"
"
"Yes, she is, she just needs to get a good night rest. John is flying into tomorrow and they will leave either Saturday or Sunday when she feels up to it."

Nickie sat on the side of the bed patting the bed. We heard the ambulance and by the time we got there you were gone, the both of you. We made sure the gas was off and went down to check the furnace. Oh, yeah we brought your stuff with us. We called a furnace repairman." She stopped short looked at Tyler and he nodded at Richard. They left.

"Nickie, are you hiding something from me?"

"No, I just wanted to see if you needed to talk to me privately."

"You think someone tampered with the furnace don't you?"

Nickie was distracted she couldn't hear the conversation outside.

"It looks like someone tampered with the furnace." Richard slumped. Tyler continued, " we were wondering why you changed the date for her to come to the lighthouse. I know you were back."
Richard was puzzled. "I didn't change the date. I came over on Sunday but she wasn't here. She text me that she would see me on 12-3."

Tyler went back into the room Richard followed. Nickie where is her phone?
Nickie reached into my purse and picked it up. He went through the messages. There it was from Richard that he was stuck in Scotland. Richard showed him his phone and there were texts but nothing like that he had sent. Nickie's stomach turned over. "Scotland, you were in Scotland Richard?"

"Yes, doing research on a film. I ran into some friends of John's there."


"By any chance did they see your phone or get your number?"

"Oh, that is right. I gave it to them to reach me later for a drink. They never called."

I looked at Nickie. "What are you thinking?"

"I am thinking that either John is behind this or his Italian vixen that he visited in Scotland. I contacted John using your web cam. He was extremely upset and was talking about putting you under ground again. I thought he was over re-acting. But now I am not sure. She looked at Tyler and Richard. "Do we call John and tell him or do we wait and look at his phone records?"

"There is no need I had his phone with mine all weekend. We never even looked at them. I have access to his account to check up on him. Can someone bring me a laptop, please?"

Once signed in we could see she had called him 34 times the last two weeks. Each time it went to block call. There was one call from Scotland that lasted 10 minutes from his Aunt's house. His only calls recently were to Richard's cell and to the hospital. He also had calls to Nickie's phone and to security people.

So it looks like he wasn't involved, they agreed.

But Nickie and Beth both still wondered.

Nickie and Tyler left. Nickie said she would come back tomorrow to see me. But tonight I was safe there were two security guards already stationed out front. Nickie called John to make sure he really had put them there. He had. He asked how Beth was doing. Nickie said, "Very sore and scared now that we know it was tampered with."

Richard moved the stuff out of the way. He asked me if I wanted him to leave. I said, "No, come join me. I really do not want to be alone tonight."

He brought two cups of spiked hot chocolate in. they cuddled together and drank the hot chocolate. Part of me was feeling secure with Richard and the security guards, another part of me wondered if they were drugging me to kill me tonight. I held onto Richard for dear life and never let go last night. We only had one night until John would come for me. Richard helped me shower, changed the sheets and got me back in just in time for John to arrive. His face was pale with concern. Richard left us alone. John buried his face in my breast, muttering how he had caused this. Tyler brought over dinner for all of us. Nickie and John went outside and were talking. They were making plans. Beth felt safe for the moment. They came back in.

Nickie begun. We had this place scanned for bugs and there are not any so we feel we can talk here. There were bugs in the lighthouse, the penthouse, and your house.You are going to disappear with Hunter for a time. John has worked hard the past few months moving his money to undisclosed locations but in all the records there are dummy accounts set up. There have been some hits on them this week. John will be going with you to this location. I will be the only one who knows where you are going. Your nanny has been given some time off starting tomorrow when you leave. She has been told you are going to Paris until Spring. While you are gone there will be a team that will find out what is going on and try to bring her out in the open. Nickie looked at Beth. Beth looked back.. they were both thinking..."are we sending her to her death or to live?

The place only Nickie knows of --- from what I know being in this undisclosed location. It is very very cold, and very very busy at this time. Luckily the man we are staying with knows if you have been bad or good, so be good for goodness sake!

Thanksgiving Weekend

Well, the three of us met for dinner at Trattoria Toscana a wonderful Italina dinner. Franco came over and kissed all of us on the cheeks and sent over the best wine for the dinner. Bambie seemed a little anxious to tell us something. I noticed right away she hesitated with the wine. Nickie and I glanced over to each other with a knowing look. Bambie waited until the entree was served then spoke up. "I just had to tell you that Scott and I are having a baby." We congratulated her and I know Nickie was thinking "Scott my ass."

Bambie said that Scott would join us on Thursday morning to watch the parade. Chris was flying back in on Wednesday. Nickie cringed at the name and started eating her dinner. Bambie did not have a clue that they were on the outs. Dinner continued with more chatting on different items. Bambie was amazed when we told her all about the Italian vixen who had set me up in Brazil.

Tuesday and Wednesday we went shopping all day. Since Bambie did not know what she was having she just bought everything neutral. I brought Hunter with us at FAO Scwartz. His eyes lit up when he saw the toys. John met us there. Dad and son were having fun in the Lionel train section. I know what Hunter will be getting for Christmas!

Thursday morning came real early. I was still in my nightgown when everyone showed up. Nickie said, "nice flannel pj's"
I gave a snarl and then smiled, "at least I am wearing something!"
So I quickly dressed. Hunter was already up and at the window. We had a brunch set up for us to snack on during the parade. Hot chocolate, coffee, orange juice, grapefruit juice, eggs in all shapes, bacon, sausage, biscuits, you name it, it was there. It takes the parade awhile to get to our area of town so we just ate and chatted. Bambie I noticed kept looking over at Matthew. Then I realized she wasn't at dinner last night when he met up with Nickie.
"I am sorry, Bambie have we introduced Matthew to you?"
"No," she replied.
Nickie introduced him to Scott and Bambie. The conversation went back to football for the guys. But Rosemary whispered to Nickie, "what about Chris? I thought he was coming last night when I told him we would see him today at John's for the parade?"
Nickie said, "Later."
John, Hunter, Scott, and Matthew were on the side of the porch watching the first float passing by. Hunter about jumped out of John's arms trying to touch the balloon. Luckily, he had his arms tight around him. As I went to get the front carrier I heard John say to "Scott, never do anything that would get Bambie mad enough to take your kids away. Being a dad is the best thing that happened to me."
Nickie followed me into the next room. "You didn't threaten to take the baby away did you?"

"Haven't you ever wondered how she knew where we were going? You hadn't told Bambie or me where we were going. Who knew besides you?"
Nickie's eyes were large and she barely whispered, "John and Chris."

"Exactly! so either my house was bugged or my husband has been talking in detail to the Italian Vixen." Before Nickie could respond. "I chose to believe my house was bugged."

Nickie didn't know what to say.

I reached for the carrier and headed back to the porch. Hunter was secure on John's chest. I moved away so I could take pictures of them. Hunter's face was priceless. Nickie moved away from Matthew to get some hot chocolate. When she came back she stood next to me.

I whispered, "You know the nanny in Ireland didn't bother me, but this vixen scares me."
Nickie looked shocked. I forgot she didn't know about the nanny. "He has been on two long trips since our Italy trip. One he took Hunter with him to see family in Scotland. There are two days of travel he can't account for. the second trip he went alone and was unreachable. When have I taken Hunter to Richard's? Or when has he not been able to reach me? Oh, besides when I was drugged......

Nickie whispered back " for what it is worth I don;t think he told her everything. He only knew the city and I told Chris the hotel. But I did call to confirm when I was at your house. Stick with the bug angle."

"He did call and tell her it was over when we were at the lighthouse. I did hear him tell her that the paternity test came back and her son is not his. I did seem him get more involved with Hunter since then. he is Hunter's father, Nickie." I walked towards John.

Nickie stood by Matthew. I think we all were excited when Santa went by. So we went inside to warm up. The food was gone but there were hot drinks to warm us up. There was a faint smell of turkey in the background. I helped Hunter out of the carrier and gave him to the nanny. I turned around and my eyes met Nickie's. We smiled. I knew she now understood why I had older nanny's now. We discussed the day. The men and Nickie were going to watch football games. Bambie and I would go window display shopping and for a walk.


After a fabulous dinner I almost wanted a nap, but Rosemary had a bundle of energy to use. So we headed off while the others were dozing off waiting for the game to begin.

Bambie had a lot of questions about Matthew, Chris, Nickie, John and Brazil. We walked and chatted. I told her what I knew. That up to two weeks ago it was Chris coming for the week. But somewhere in Iceland or Alaska she met up with Matthew. He is really nice and gets along with us. We stopped into a quaint chocolate shop and indulged. We enjoyed our walk back to the penthouse. They guys were all awake watching the game except for John. Seems he got a phone call. I walked quietly into the bedroom He was asleep on the bed. I saw his phone and the call had come from his sister. I woke him up and told him about the score and that half time was almost over. He reached for me, "don't worry I have her number blocked. She won't bother us again." He pulled me closer and caressed my neck just the way I like it The game was almost over when we came back into the room. Nickie looked at me. I mouthed, "his sister." she smiled.