I do not own EUReKA.

Eureka: From A to Z

Kicking and Screaming

"Hey Jo."

Spinning, she nearly fell off her stool at the sound of the uniquely distinct voice; one she hadn't heard in some time.

"Taggart, I didn't know you were back in town."

"Yeah. Working a new project studying the mating habits of the Cave Glowworm."

Jo didn't know what to say. "Great..."

"So, I hear congrats are in order."

Frowning, she was puzzled by his well wishes.

"Huh?"

"You. Zane. Engaged."

"Oh, thanks." Then the realization of who she was speaking to hit her; the ear to ear grin slowly fading.

"Listen Tag, I'm sorry I didn't tell you."

Nobly, he brushed it off. "No worries. You don't have to apologize to me Josephine."

Sentimental; a smile tugged at the corners of her mouth at hearing him speak her name. Recounting the tale of their alternate Eureka relationship, she'd rejected his proposal; claiming to like things the way they were. Knowing herself, it was probably the fear of losing a partner; like her father had lost her mother. She saw the grief he'd lived with, and she never wanted that. So, she broke Taggart's heart.

In this Eureka, she was different; unbeknownst to all but a select few. Besides, she couldn't tell him the truth, and if she did, would he even believe her?

"I admit, the news hit me like a thunderbolt. I remember you saying the only way you'd get married is if you were dragged down the isle kicking and screaming. And Zane...you said he was a vain, childish know-it-all."

"He is." Her playful jab electing laughter from them both.

Taggart took up an empty stool and whispered to her. "Josephine, I hate to ask but, did you two...have a thing when we were together?"

"No, of course not!"

"Then, I have to know. Why not me?"

Jo felt like a first class heel. She could lie, but he deserved better.

"Tag I hurt you, and for that I'm deeply sorry. What we had was real, and I did love you but, I'm in love with Zane."

She didn't know what she expected him to do. He'd never be cruel to her, but the pain in his eyes spoke a thousand words.

"Please don't be angry with me. I don't think I could stand it if I lost you as a friend."

Then he looked at her as if it were the most absurd thing he'd ever heard. "Jo, we'll always be friends. I only want to see you happy. So, are you?"

"I am."

Conceding, he rose and headed for the door. "Hey, don't forget. Scores tied thirteen-thirteen, and I'm free this Saturday. We on?"

At the mention of their never ending game of paintball, she then knew they'd be all right.

"You know it Tag."

Not five minutes after his exit, Zane walked in. Concerned upon seeing her melancholy expression, he asked if she was okay.

"Yeah babe, I'm fine. Just thinking about an old friend..."