Title: Target Specific
Chapter 2 - Friends and Neighbors
A/N: wow thanks for the great support. I was kinda nervous about you guys liking this angle with my SMACKED so thanks for putting my mind at ease and now I will happily continue and hopefully not disappoint (eek!)! So hang on for a long, fun, sexy, action filled ride. Hope that's okay and you like this chapter as well and many thanks.
PS: Yes as some of you might have guessed the basic "premise" to Mr. & Mrs. Smith was the idea for this story where they are assassins hired to kill each other, but in this story they aren't married. However, there might be some similarities throughout (grin) so enjoy!
~Mac Taylor, Zurich Switzerland~
"Welcome back," Don greets me as I look up from my coffee, slowly putting down the newspaper and offering a welcoming smile.
"Good to be home," I lightly frown as he plunks himself down opposite me, Sid bringing him a plate of breakfast to match mine.
"Sid, I could have gotten that," Don frowns but then offers a thanks and Sid just smiles.
"It's my morning joy, humor me," Sid retorts and Don looks at me with an amused expression.
"Don't ask, he's been that way all morning," I huff.
"Someone got lucky last night," Don grins and I just roll my eyes; Sid offering only a cryptic smile in return. "Mac, he's like ninety and can still get women; what's wrong with you?"
"Ninety? Listen you young whippersnapper," Sid starts with a mock threat but knows his face has already gone a deeper shade of red and must take his leave before the two younger men start to dissect his personal life; still humming in the background, forcing us both to just wonder.
"Think I'm right?" Don asks.
"She's just a friend."
"A friend Sid?" Don teases.
"Don, leave him alone," I just shake my head, taking another sip of coffee.
"Does he ever offer any secrets on finding the right woman?"
"Yeah stop looking," I frown.
"That's lame."
"That's what I said."
"I can hear you both!" Sid calls to us and Don finally changes the topic. I laugh at Sid sometimes, as he has also adopted a fatherly stance toward both of us; calling us his boys sometimes, as he never had sons. However, as much as he too is protective of Don, his watching over me is sometimes to a fault and his concern deeper than for my protoge.
"How was Dubai? I could have helped on that one you know," Don mentions to me in a somewhat sour tone.
"Had nothing to do with your skills; just the nature of the assignment itself and the location. Trust me not a place I'll frequent anytime soon, although I was invited back. You got your cut right?"
"Still would like to earn it," he huffs.
"It was tough."
"Want to talk about it?" Don asks.
"No," I answer simply and he just lightly scowls.
Part of me that frustrates Don the most is that I am a very private person; not really allowing anyone a glimpse into my soul; Sid labeling me iron clad and private and closed off long ago. I know Don means well but if I am to pour out my soul and inner most feelings it won't be to another man. I do offer some glimpses to Sid, but he's had experience in life that I know will lend a beneficial reply as to Don just wanting me to simply get it off my chest. I offer a look and Don knows not to press me further on Dubai.
"Next time," I offer and he finally agrees. "So the Mediterranean?" I ask in wonder; leaning back in my patio chair. "Glad you used my away time nicely."
"Sid!" Don scolds.
"Don't blame him. You know I would have found out sooner or later. How was it?"
"Just a few days in Athens that's it but it was amazing. Ever been?"
"I prefer the coast but...once but not for any length of time."
"Mac you have millions, time to spend a little on personal pleasure," he reminds me in a kind tone. "We both know you fancy Mediterranean women over anyone else; certainly over American women."
"American women are too skinny and obsessed with self image and dieting. The last American I dated I felt like I was going to break her in half when I held her close," I remind him with a slight wince and Don just smiles at me. "What's she like?"
"Who?"
"What do you mean Who? The woman responsible for the permanent grin you have on your face."
"Grin?" Don fakes.
"Don't play me. Who is she?"
"Jessica Angell," Don tells me. "And she's an angel all right; and beautiful.
"Well I know she must be tall with dark hair as you only seem to look at that type. What does she do for work?"
"Advertising sales," Don replies; giving him the false professional title that has been handed to her by my rival; her skilled teacher. "Did I mention beautiful."
"What did you tell her about you?"
"Trust me I told her what you told me to say. I'm a land developer based near Switzerland and I travel lot. I think she bought it. Mac I got this down to a science now."
"Did you see the inside of her apartment?"
"Mac!"
I just look at him and arch my brows in suspicion. "Don, give me a break will you."
"She lives in Kalamata but we did get a room, only once and it was well worth it," he smiles again, not able to hide the obvious fact that he's smitten.
"Should I bother to remember this one's name?"
"Thats your department Mac, but I told her I would see her again soon and I just might. Why don't you come with me next time?"
"You could use some sun Master Taylor," Sid reminds me as he comes back onto the balcony and sits down opposite me with his usual cup of Queen's Blend breakfast tea and some latest medical journal. Even though he's not practicing any longer, Sid likes to keep his skills and knowledge up to date and I am more than grateful as I always seem to have something new to offer him in the way of a medical fix up.
"Sid, you still call him Master?" Don queries.
"Much like you, he doesn't listen to me either," I retort with a slight frown.
"But you are not his Master," Don laughs.
"Could use a vacation Master Taylor," Sid notes.
"Don't start you two," I lightly warn and Sid just smiles. "Besides, if I took a real vacation two things would happen; I would die of natural causes because I wouldn't know what to do with myself and Sid would turn this place into a seventies disco parlor."
"Really?" Don asks with a smile and Sid slowly shakes his head no.
"Then I'd have to clean up. Trust me Tidy Taylor here is a god send," he praises and I just smirk.
"Seriously Mac, a few days in Greece?"
"With you and this girl? Me a third wheel? No thanks."
"You could just relax you know," Sid mentions.
"What's that?" I question and Don swats my arm. "I'll think about it," is all I can offer. Sid looks at me and just offers a slight frown but no further words; knowing me well enough to know when to press me about an issue and when to wait for a better time to press his luck.
"What are your plans for today?" Don asks me as he continues with his breakfast.
"Today is a regular day."
"Mac, that's everyday for you when you are not working. I have to take care of a few things, but why don't you stop by later and we'll go out for dinner."
"Is this another setup?" I ask with a tired voice.
"He's not into setups," Sid offers and Don smirks.
"I'm not into setups," I huff.
"It's not a set up, I swear," Don insists. "Just you buying me dinner," he finishes and I just shake my head.
Don and I make idle talk about his new love and his trip to Greece for the better part of an hour before he takes his leave, finally getting me to agree to go with him to one of Zurich's most trendy but expensive culinary eateries; Petermanns Kunststuben, in the Kssnacht area of Zurich. I know Don will con me into paying but in truth I can afford it and dont mind his company, and could use an outing, so just agree and he finally takes his leave.
"Want to join us?"
"I have plans," Sid tells me in a kind tone; looking at me in concern. "But you on the other hand..."
"Just say it."
"Don seems happy."
"He just got laid," I retort and Sid chuckles; knowing better than to ask if I'm jealous. "But yeah I guess he has that look in his eye. Ever had that?"
"Once," Sid remembers as he leans back in his chair.
"And your newest lady friend?"
"Nothing too serious; we've agreed we're just friends. Much like myself, she too has lost her true love and so at times we just need someone to talk and enjoy some company with, especially when you're not around. I've had my chance at true love Mac, and when she died a part of me died that day and was never reborn. Unlike yourself, I've had my shot at true love and have no regrets, save one, she's not here to get to know you like I have. But then if she wasn't taken from me, I would never have gotten to know you, so her passing was also a small blessing."
"Do you still miss her?"
"Sometimes so much that I can't even breathe," he whispers with a faraway look.
"Sorry."
"Don't be sorry," Sid quickly regains himself. "The past is pain and pleasure, right?"
I can only smile at his kind words and feel an emotional drain starting to eat away at my insides as I listen to the rest of his explanation; forcing me to feel a twinge of jealousy at a chance I believe has long since passed me by.
"Do you ever miss practicing medicine?" I ask him, knowing inside that he trusts me enough to spare his feelings any personal pain.
"Sometimes, but then with all the trouble you get into, it's practically a full time job just helping you," he offers and I frown. "However, I do help out those in town when I visit but it's not the same to me any more, my fulfillment is here helping you. It's what she would have wanted from and expected of me."
"Your wife was amazing, I'm not an honorable man," I insist.
"To me you are," he offers and I look up in wonder. "Honor is what we carry with us, who we are; not what pays our bills."
"I envy your love and history; it's something I doubt I'll ever have. I have been looking for ten years; it won't happen now."
"You'll find her Mac, and when you do you'll know it in that instant and you'll never want to let her go. Then you'll finally know the love and happiness I want for you."
"Thank you."
"Ah you caught me at a weak moment," he smiles, quickly regaining his composure; but never afraid to show his real self in my presence.
"I meant for calling me Mac," I lightly offer and he smirks.
"That was a weaker moment," he finishes and I just laugh. "But you really shouldn't write yourself off."
"Someone has to," I huff and he frowns.
"She'll accept you no matter what."
"And if she doesn't?"
"Then you'll keep looking until you find one that does. She's out there."
"I don't trust anyone."
"You trust me and sometimes Don," Sid smirks.
"I never trusted Peyton."
"Mac, you never wanted to be with Peyton. And you certainly never loved her."
"But..."
"Trust me, when you find her and if you love her enough, you'll trust her."
"Thanks."
"Not that I don't mind you opening up to me but..." Sid starts.
"Why now more so than before?" I frown.
"Exactly."
"Dubai."
"What else happened that you are keeping locked inside your tormented brain?"
"I happened upon a letter from the man who loved the Emir's sister in law; the man she found love and security with."
"And?"
"And just the words; his life pledged to hers even in death; his soul already belonging to hers and...oh never mind," I huff, looking away in frustration and Sid gently squeezes my shoulder. "I guess I thought that kind of love and people outside of you never existed. I guess other men do also feel that way and I want that, even just once."
"Growing up is pretty painful isn't it?"
"It is."
"What are you going to do today Sir?" He lightly questions and I smirk; once again thankful that he has the insight to change the subject and not let me wallow in my mis-guided misery.
"Probably much the same as the week ahead, not much. But before I go and see Don, I do have to get some banking done, pay a few things for this place. What else did you say we needed fixed around here?"
"One of the jets in the outside hot tub is broken; two of the lights in the sauna room..." his voice trails off as my eyes once again wander down the mountainside and rest on the activity in the city below. In my heart I know that's what I want, what Sid told me; a woman that I will find and in an instant know I'll never want to let her go; that my soul and heart will belong to her for all eternity. But where is she? Certainly not in any of the clubs Don has dragged me into as of late.
Sid finally finishes his list of things that need tending to and once again I offer a small thanks; knowing I would be lost without his help and this place in ruins. I might have rescued him that fateful day but in truth we were two men in search of a lifeline to grab onto; forcing ourselves one last breath of hope and promise; taking it from the company of the other and helping ourselves through the murky waters of life. A chance given to each other when the rest of the world had written us off for good.
Sid clears away the last of the plates and I finally push myself to a standing position and wander over to the edge of the balcony where I was last night and then look over and down. I can almost feel a soft hand gently rubbing my back and I automatically offer a sigh of contentment; one that is not lost on my guardian but thankfully something he won't mention. I take a few more deep breaths of fresh mountain air and then head back inside, toward my bedroom. I quickly shed my jeans and t-shirt in favor of a pair of track pants and head downstairs into my personal gym. I like to keep myself in top physical shape, not just to give myself a fighting chance when I am in trouble, which is often, but something more desirable to offer my dream woman when I finally find her.
"Can't offer her a shabby Mac Taylor," I lightly laugh as I pick up a pair of punching gloves and head for the large leather punching bag hanging in a small room. I offer all I have; expelling anger, stress and frustration; things I have had to keep inside when in Dubai. I finally finish up my affair with the bag and head over to the weights; finish them off, a half hour on the treadmill and I think I need another shower. I usually work out at night so I can shower right afterward but I was too tired last night so this morning took its place. I quickly finish my shower and then head back into the bedroom. I hate dressing up and always wonder if I'm either over or under dressed. Left up to me, I would wear jeans all the time, but as I head into my closet I see Sid has chosen something he thinks will be appropriate but also catch the ladies attention and I once again know I'd be lost without him. Dark dress pants, beige polo shirt and new brown leather jacket. Oh why can't I just wear jeans, I moan as I toss the towel aside and hurry to get ready.
"Looking pretty dapper," Sid mentions to me an hour later as I am about to head out.
"Dapper? Don says the word is hot," I reply with a slight frown. "More like plain."
"Not in that."
"Thanks, I think. Be back later."
"Call if you're going to be late," Sid calls out to me.
"I doubt I'll be that late, this is Don's place, remember? Plus he's in love right?"
"Just go and enjoy, even if it'll be the first time."
I offer a sideways smile as I head into the secure garage; getting into my luxury Land Rover and then finally leaving my estate, Sid watching from the balcony and offering a wave. The fact that he has never lost my trust or taken liberties with what is at his disposal has earned him free run of the place in my absence. He's the father I wish I had even now.
I head into Zurich and am always reminded why I chose the spot where my home is; I would go insane in all this daily traffic. And although it's no where near as bad as some of the major cities I have been into, this is bad enough.
"How on earth does Don do this?" I lightly growl at the traffic that isn't moving very fast. I finally reach the bank and my head is pounding and my anger rising. Thankfully the polite Asian teller has a calming effect on my presence; that and the fact I remind myself I am in public around normal people, I quickly settle down at start my banking business. I head back outside; one more place to visit to make before I pick up Don. I stop my custom SUV in front of a small repair shop and head inside.
"Mac, you dressed up for me?"
"Nice try Walt, I need some more repairs done," I tell the man that Sid personally recommended. He's the only other man that I will actually allow on my property as he's proven his worth and gained my trust by ensuring my privacy and security are guaranteed. "Just a few actually. This should cover it," I tell him as I hand him a generous cheque.
"How is Sid?"
"He's okay. Waiting for the hot tub to be fixed again."
"So he and Alice can use it?"
"Alice? As in Alice Webb?"
"Headmistress of the Bramston Girls School."
I just shake my head and offer a slight smile. "Thanks Walt."
"Take care Mac," he offers as I take my leave. Alice Webb, I smirk to myself. And although I know Sid is not looking to get remarried, I think she'd be a fine woman for him if he ever thought about it. But when you've had true love do you even want to get married again? Sid said no, but I've never had that so I don't know. I would like to think I will grow old with someone, but what if don't have that opportunity? Will I just grow old and die alone?
Before I can allow myself any more morbid thoughts, I get back into the Land Rover and head over to Don's brownstone dwelling. He lives in a very trendy part of town and seems to blend in very well with the rest of his young yuppie like neighbors. I see his black Audi sports car still parked out front and just stop. I think I'll drive as that'll give me an excuse to not only leave early but also not drink too much. The last time I was drunk, poor Sid had to let me sleep it off in the front entrance as he wasn't able to carry me up the stairs to a softer piece of furniture without hurting himself or me. I learnt my lesson and haven't done it again; never had a good reason. Certainly no one worth getting drunk over.
"She doesn't exist," I remind myself as I pull to the curb and stop.
I get out and then slowly head toward his front door; my eyes always watching around me, years of living in paranoia and wondering if there is perhaps someone waiting to take a shot and end my existence right now. I have tried to push that feeling away and just relax but inside its not possible; it's part of who I am now.
"Come on in Mac," Don greets me and I step inside his very modern home. "Sid, dress you again?"
"You want to keep your job?" I retort with a dry expression.
"Yeah I guess we can't all be GQ like me," he laughs as he grabs his wallet and stuffs it into his leather waistcoat. "What do you think of the new color scheme?" He asks about the light green and earth tone decor that now greet me in his posh living space.
"Very modern," I remark with a light frown. "Very...you."
"Thank you very much. So you thought about Greece?"
"Don, what would I do there? You and this girl and me?"
"She has friends Mac, trust me I'm sure it won't be just the three of us. I'll make you a deal, you come with me, spend at least one day and if you really do hate it, leave and I won't have hurt feelings."
"But..."
"What do you have to lose?"
"My sanity?" I lightly grimace.
"Lost that long ago Mac," he teases. "Come on."
"I'll let you know tomorrow."
"Fine, but if you say no, I'll just ask until you say yes," he offers and I just roll my eyes. "All set?"
"I'm driving," I state firmly. "I thought you were interested in this girl Jessica?"
"Mac, this is not a pick up place and yes I'm very interested which is why we aren't going to a club or bar. Sid just said..."
"What?" I ask in shock as we stand just outside his brownstone on the porch. I grab his arm and force him to look me square on. "What did he say?"
"That you needed a break away from home to get your mind off Dubai. Was it really that bad?"
"I spare you certain assignments for a reason," I reply with a slight frown.
"And holding it inside? That's not healthy either."
"Hence why I am here," I huff as we slowly walk down the steps to my dark green SUV. "I also went one on one with the bag today so I am feeling pretty okay."
"Sorry," Don mumbles as he gets into the front seat.
"What on earth for?"
"For whatever you won't tell me," he frowns as I close the door. "Think you'll ever find someone you'll want to share your pain with?"
"Trust me Don, she doesn't exist," I reply with a sad tone as I push us into the nightlife of downtown Zurich. I know I say those words, mostly to remind myself that a quality woman wouldn't be interested in a man with a tormented past and tortured soul; not getting my hopes up. We enter the upscale restaurant and thankfully true to his word, we take a seat and it's just us for the rest of the night, Don surprising me by not even looking at another woman. Whatever this Jessica has, must be special, because Don's attention was on me all night. Will I ever have that? No. So I push those sad thoughts deep to the back of my mind and heart; paste on a fake smile for the rest of the world to see and tell myself my soul mate doesn't exist.
Still I can't help but wonder, if she does exist, what she's doing right about now?
~Stella Bonasera, Messinia, Greece~
My mind continues to dream about an amazing man holding me close; planting warm kisses on my naked body; his hands holding me close and his mouth telling me how much he loves me and that he can't live without me. I feel Alexander moving by my feet and as soon as he goes to pounce, I'm forced awake.
"Thanks Alexander," I lightly huff as I push some curls out of my face and look over at the clock. It's almost five and I have more than overslept.
"Right through lunch," I moan as I rub Alexander's head before I grab him and give him a gentle squeeze and he starts to reward me with enthusiastic purrs. "What do you think our soul mate is doing right now?" I ask him as I slowly push the warm comforter off me and allow the cool air to fully pull me from my sleepy stupor; Alexander once again attacking my feet. "Probably something fun and amazing, but he better be alone!" I pout and then laugh.
"Stella, you are so sad," I offer to the empty room as I push myself out of bed and the head into my closet to put some normal clothes on, returning my plush robe to its rightful place in my bathroom. If I am going out I like to dress up a little more but it's only Jessica and so choose some comfortable cotton pants a colorful tunic top; my hair up and away from my face and neck.
"Hello?" Jessica calls out; using the key I have given her to let herself in.
"Come on in!" I call out. "Be right down."
I finish putting a few things away and then hurry down to see Jessica and greet her with a big hug.
"Welcome back," she smiles as we slowly wander into the kitchen; me taking the things she's brought and her just following after me and helping where necessary.
"How was Costa Rica?" She wonders.
"Tiring," I offer with a slight frown. "And before you start, this one was just a personal favor which is why I wasn't there for that long."
"Personal favor for a Crime Lord?"
"Sometimes it helps to have friends in low places," I offer and she smirks.
"Thought those were all your friends."
"Almost, except you," I throw at her and she smiles. "Next time okay?"
"Sure."
"Jess you know it's not a trust thing right?"
"There is still so much you keep from me, but I guess after playing this game for ten years, I can't fault you anything else except mistrust."
"It'll come. I did get you something," I tell her as I bring out a gift bag and hand it to her with a grin. She takes the bag eagerly and opens it in haste; quickly pulling out each thing and squealing with glee like a child on a special occasion. She looks at the authentic handmade Caftan, sandals with real stones; native jewelry and a bottle of pure flower nectar.
"You had time to shop?"
"I'm good at what I do," I wink.
"Not that I'm not grateful but you didn't have to give me a share when I didn't do anything to help."
"Well usually you keep this place under lock and key but Sheldon I hear had to feed Alexander. Where were you?"
"Athens," she finally admits.
"His name?"
"What? Who's name?" She asks in haste, trying to hide the rising color in her cheeks.
"The man on your mind right now? The one causing that smile?" I ask with a twinge of envy. Even after I'd come home from being with my past relationships; Frankie in the beginning included; I never had that look on my face; the look of love or at least deep attraction at first sight. I'm still waiting for mine. Where is he?
"His name is Don Flack and he's a land developer who lives in Switzerland and he travels a lot and was just down for a few days in Athens. We met in the market place and...damn Stella that was it. At least I think it is," she finishes with a frown.
"What makes this one so special? Besides his obvious dark features that I know you swoon over."
"Yes tall, dark and certainly handsome; I would even say hot. Bright blue eyes, Irish and a great body..."
"You've seen...Jessica!"
"Just once, couldn't help myself, as soon as I saw him I was picturing him naked!" She blushes and I just smile warmly; something else I haven't felt yet. Haven't found a man yet that at first glance would like to see all he has to offer. Will I ever have that?
"And you told him what about yourself?"
"What you told me, I'm in Advertising sales which is why I too travel a lot, I live in Greece, brought him to a small hotel in Athens as opposed to my real home in Kalamata. He's so sweet and..."
"Love?"
"Stella I'm sorry," she quickly offers.
"About what?"
"Bragging about my great new guy when..."
"Jessica I have learned that my soul mate doesn't exist, the man I want to spend the rest of my life with; he's a figment of my over worked imagination."
"Could happen."
"Has to fit my qualifications and I just..."
"Don't you ever tire of the mental list?" She asks as we continue making our tasty dinner.
"Sometimes, but it sure helps me weed out a lot of one night stands."
"Dark hair, blue eyes, great arms, great body, brooding...did I leave anything out?"
"Single and no kids?" I offer and she laughs.
"And must love cats. Don is allergic so I guess we won't be sitting for Alexander anytime soon."
"We?"
"We."
"Well I am happy for you. Should I memorize his name?"
"Might keep this one around for a bit but we'll see how it goes. I don't want to get my hopes up but he's emailed or texted me almost every day since we parted and you always told me a man has to pursue me more than me pursuing him so..."
"Well it's very obvious you are smitten," I tell her and she looks at me with a tight smile. "That better be because dinner is a bit late and not because you think me pathetic and..."
"I'd never think you pathetic but I just wish you'd find him...the man I know is out there right now thinking of you."
"No one is thinking of me right now. Come on let's change the subject and get this food on the table."
Jessica brings the wine and fresh bread, arranging the small plates for dipping with authentic olive oil and carefully aged balsamic. A fresh plate of antipasto, lightly steamed seafood, fresh grilled veggies that Jessica brought, and a few spreads.
We finally seat ourselves on my private first floor eating balcony and just take our time enjoying some of the finer things life has to offer; the setting sun warming us. I love my life and live very well, but I would like to have that special someone with me right now, enjoying my company and all that I have to offer him, a great meal and a woman who he could devote his future to. I can almost feel his fingers gently touching mine as we reach for the same item, warm laughter and a loving gaze make me offer a sigh of contentment. Jessica thankfully doesn't mention it; but I know it's not lost on her.
"You going to spend the night?" I ask Jessica as we just sit in peaceful solitude sometime later; the sound of the gentle waves offering some salty loving to the sandy beach below us.
"Brought my overnight bag including my swimsuit for tomorrow."
"I have to go and see Sheldon sometime soon to get my shots up dated and then I'll spend a few days at your place as I need to take care of a few things in the city."
"Well maybe if you play your cards right you can meet my new man."
"Jessica, what happened to playing hard to get?"
"He asked me," she pouts and I laugh.
"When is he coming back?"
"He'd come back tomorrow if I let him. You just let me know; we'll make it a foursome with Sheldon so it won't feel odd. What do you say? Next week okay?"
"Ask me again tomorrow."
"I will do that," she says firmly. We talk for another few hours and then head inside; just enjoying each other's company, the warm fire that is now going, watching Alexander chase whatever stray insect has crossed his path and slowly finishing our bottle of well aged wine.
"Do you think you'll ever know your real father?" Jessica asks sometime later.
My past is something I am always researching; Jessica knows this all too well. My mother I learned died in a car accident and I was told she worked as an artist and was in New York for a show and that's how I came to be there. However, I don't know much else; nothing about my father, her life here in Greece, if I'm an only child and other details that would round out my family history; something I long for more than sometimes a soul mate. And even though there are times I tell Jessica I just need some space to myself, she knows I'm on my computer, in my small office, trying to find out details to my past.
"I doubt it, I don't even know which part of Greece I am from as I'm not the only one with this last name. I have sought a few Bonasera's out to see if we could possibly be related, but so far no one has offered anything of import. Plus I believe he's half Italian and guess how many Bonasera's there are in Italy?"
Jessica offers a sad smile as I ramble on for a bit longer. In truth, although she came from a sometimes dysfunctional home and family; I envy her the fact that they are all still alive, and if in trouble she'd just have to show up on their door step and they'd take her, in no questions asked.
We finally finish putting everything away and it's almost midnight and I am more than exhausted. And although I know tonight will probably offer another bout of troubled sleep; it's something I have just come to accept as my nightly routine. Jessica heads for the spare bedroom and I head back upstairs; finally changing into some comfortable pajamas and pulling my comforter over me once again; the soft waves trying to lull me to sleep. I force my eyes closed, telling myself the waves are my lover whispering how much he loves me as I fall asleep in his warm and secure embrace.
"Goodnight my blue eyed prince," I whisper into the stillness of night as I picture him smiling down at me.
That happy thought finally forces me into the dark realm of sleep and that coupled with the jet-lag and half bottle of wine; when I open my eyes next, I am welcoming the warm morning sun with a smile.
I roll onto my back and just gaze up at the ceiling with a frown. Although the last job was a personal favor of sorts, it also took its toll on my mental well being. I was shown pictures of the little girls watching as their mother was killed before their eyes and as my nightmares last night proved, that although I can think happy thoughts and fool myself into thinking there is someone out there for me; my past will always haunt me and I think keep me alone.
They became orphans and now have to help each other through on harsh road of life; their mother murdered and their father an ex-Crime Lord also murdered by me. I am very thankful I didnt have to look them in the eye but in truth I was happy to rid the planet of their monster of a father. It wasnt until after I killed him, however, did I learn that the mother was also dead; otherwise I might have done things a little differently.
I offer a frown and a heavy sigh as my eyes slightly water. I must have been asleep in the car when we were hit as I don't remember my mother being hurt and then dying; I just remember waking up in a strange place, being told this was my home by people who to this day have no claim to my heritage.
One of the things that sometimes frustrates Jessica so much is how private I am even now about certain things; my heritage being one of them, my love life not. And while she knows exactly what kind of man I want at my side in the long run; she has yet to learn of the real pain I carry inside for being abandoned by the woman who helped give me life. I just can't feel the need to burden her with those inner thoughts and feelings; those I'll save for someone strong enough to want even after I have yelled my betrayed heart out.
I finally push those thoughts out of my head and get myself out of bed and slowly wander over to the balcony. Jessica is already moving around downstairs, probably going to go for an early morning swim as she's accustomed to. I like to visit my private gym on a daily basis as it keeps me in top fighting shape and my body in its desirable form. An hour after doing my light workout routine, I change into my bathing suit and head out to the beach to join Jessica as we lay in the sun until we think of something else that catches our fancy.
"Water is amazing," she smiles as I plunk myself down beside her on the small beach chair. "Heard you again last night."
"Oh Jessica I'm sorry...I guess Costa Rica wasn't the walk in the park I thought it would be."
"Want to talk about it?"
"I had to make two small girls orphans."
"What? Stella, why didn't you tell me?"
"Sorry, just hard to...I don't know...open up about everything."
"But you said..."
"I know but I wasn't told the mother was killed until after...oh I just need a break."
"What you need is someone you can really confide in."
"I have you."
"Trust me Stella, it's not the same as having someone you love as your best friend and trusted confidant."
"I'll never have that," I frown. "He died long ago."
"I think we both need a distraction."
"You just had a distraction, Don Flack if I remember correctly?"
"Well I think when we go to Kalamata, I'll invite him and you'll just hang with some fun friends, including Sheldon and we'll just forget about work for awhile."
"Any calls?"
"One," Jessica offers. "Mitchell Industries wants me..." she goes on to explain about a new case involving industrial espionage and something that might be just up her ally and once again train her and sharpen her ever evolving skills.
"Since I just got back, and you obviously want to see him again, we'll tell them you'll get back to them but the answer is going to be yes and then we'll go over your plan of attack."
"Sounds good to me."
We talk for a bit more about work; me leaving my blackberry in my office so work isnt going to interfere with my much needed downtime, which in truth doesn't happen as it comes everywhere with me. The rest of the day in fact much of the week is spent just relaxing around home; tending to matters that were neglected while we were away and then making arrangements for Alexander to be taken to a trustworthy neighbor while I am away in Kalamata. After being away from home, I always like to spend time just unwinding but know I do need my shots updated and so have to head into town before much time passes.
"I'll be back real soon," I offer to my furry friend at the end of the week, as I put him into his special carrying case and then load him into the backseat of my open sided Jeep and then my suitcase and Jessica's overnight bag. My neighbor will pass by here a few times but the trip from my home to Kalamata isn't that far as Kalamata is the capital of the Messinia region where I live; but it's an amazing picturesque trip, one worth taking by car so you can enjoy all the coast has to offer.
"Think I should set Sheldon up with my friend Cindy?" Jessica asks as we slowly drive away from dropping off Alexander and then heading for our favorite doctor in the city.
"Hasn't he met her yet?"
"I told her to drop off a resume. She's studying to become a nurse," Jessica informs me.
"Oh then he'd really be distracted," I mention and she just laughs. Much like us, Sheldon is also a private person and chooses only to share certain things with us; telling us it's more than he shares with even his family, and I am inclined to believe him.
"Jess, are we having dinner at your place tonight, or in town?"
"Could eat at mine, why?"
"Then let's stop here and I'll buy something to contribute."
We stop at one of the local wineries along the way and slowly wander through the maze of abundant vineyards; finally landing at the small tasting and purchasing shop. I head over to a small display and casually reach for a bottle of wine when a kind hand touches mine and I stop; forcing myself to look at the man who's hampering my actions.
"This one is better," he offers in Greek and I just smile in return. I don't like Greek men as most are so taken with their own mothers a woman can't measure up or spends the rest of her time trying to fight the stigma he's forced upon her.
"Thank you," I offer in reply, lending my own native tongue to the conversation.
"You look beautiful today," he praises, once again in Greek and I just smile. Today I wore a designer sundress that fits where it should and although I know it garners a little more stares than I might normally like, I just couldn't pass it up. Obviously working its charm on the distracted man to my right.
"Thank you," I reply once again, trying to sound busy and disinterested.
He asks if it's for a family dinner and I just say yes to spare myself the hassle of yet another blind date. The next man I am even thinking about has to have at least the superficial qualities I seek or I just give them the phony story about being married with children and most back off; at least this one before me takes the hint and goes his way.
"Stella, he wasnt that bad," Jessica lightly scolds as we walk back to my Jeep and then are on our way back to Kalamata.
"I guess as time passes and with each assignment, I just find myself wanting more and more to become less and less active in the dating world. As of right now, I am swearing off men for at least a year."
"A year?" Jessica arches her brows.
"A month?" I frown. "A week?" I offer in a timid tone and Jessica just laughs.
"What is it they say, if you stop looking it finally finds you?" Jessica smiles.
"Then I'll just stop looking and let my blue eyed prince come to me," I confirm with a nod of my head. We finally reach town and I drop Jessica off at her trendy villa, telling her that I'll be bringing Sheldon with me and we'll both stay for dinner. I have a small apartment next door to Sheldon's, just down from Jessica's, so I don't have to worry about driving back to my lair in the darkness.
But I am certain that as soon as Jessica is out of my sight; she'll be on her computer sending her newest love interest an email to see if she can con him into coming a little closer to home. But if he's at least half as smitten as she's made him out to be, she could tell him to meet her on the moon and I think he'd listen.
I stop the Jeep in front of Sheldon's practice and get out.
"Welcome back," the handsome doctor greets me with a warm hug as we head into his private office. He goes to his desk and starts to pull my medical history as I take a seat before him, winding a stray curl around my fingers.
"You look stressed," Sheldon notes and I just frown.
"Tough job and no I don't want to talk about it," I insist and he just smiles.
"You tell me what you need me to hear, that's all I ever ask," Sheldon replies as he calls for his assistant and gives her instructions for the shots I need. "Trust me these won't interfere with your meal."
"Which Jessica is cooking."
"On second thought..." he laughs. "So did she tell you about him? Don Flack?"
"Sounds nice."
"Stella?"
"Nothing."
"He's out there," Sheldon tells me in a soft tone.
"I know he is," I lie; believing inside that my soul mate doesn't really live anywhere outside my own imagination. "And yours? I hear Cindy is going to med school."
"Yeah I heard that too," Sheldon smiles. "What do you think of her? Jessica arranged a meeting, but she already dropped off her resume and she's pretty hot. She's Australian. Blond hair, blue eyes, great body and smart."
"Better than Ruth," I frown and he laughs.
"Yeah she was a real space cadet."
"Sheldon you need someone educated and sophisticated. Cindy just needs to build up her education, otherwise she's a great match for you."
"Well we'll see...so how long you sticking around town for?"
"We'll see. Jessica wants to invite her friend from Switzerland back down but I am not sure if I just want to be a third wheel to a budding romance," I reply in a sad tone with a heavy frown.
"Might not be that bad. Tell you what, you let her invite him and then the four of us will go out together so at least you and I will have someone to talk to while they make out," he finishes with a slight laugh and I just smile.
"Okay fine" I smile as his assistant comes back in the room with my shots and I just position myself so I can take them. My mind starts to wander about this new man of Jessica's and I just offer a heavy sigh. I don't really want to surround myself with two love birds when it seems like that chance is just so far out of reach, I'll never live long enough to actually grasp it in my fingers.
But I know Jessica wants my support so settle inside that I'll allow myself to entertain her new man Don Flack; telling myself that it'll just be another routine visit among friends. And while I tell myself my dream man doesn't really exist, I can't help but wonder what he'd be doing with his time right now?
And as I lean back in my chair and ponder my mental question, little do I know that my life is about to take an interesting turn; forcing open a road that I though was destroyed long ago.
A/N: Still liking the story and want to know what will happen next? Please review and tell me and thanks in advance!