Hello and happy Thursday! Thank you all for being so patient. I really tried to get this chapter up sooner, but it looks like once a month is going to the schedule.

DarkAngel27: Thank you so much and I'm glad you like this!

ViaNearth11: You're welcome and thank you! I am too and little by little you'll see!

Jackepcaco: Aw, thank you!

Dont-Stop-Believin: Yes, finally! Thank you!

Ross's Juliet: OMG, you're so awesome! Thank you so much and haha, that would be great!

ProudlyUnique: Oh, yeah! Hehe, you know me! Thank you and I'm excited!

Enjoy!

Weeks go by and Austin and Ally are still happy and smiling like fools. Their relationship is going really well and even though they would have liked to have kept it a secret for a little bit longer, they couldn't. They thought they were being careful, but luck wasn't on their side as at the first little sight something 'intimate' between the two, the news spread like wildfire. Of course Austin tried to slow down the attention, but the more he pushed, the more attention he grabbed. And Ally, hating the attention with a passion tried to keep her head down and focus on her work. Which was harder than she thought. But the more days that passed and the more the two accepted their fate, the news of them together slowly died down and a new story took center stage.

OoOoOoOo

It was a glorious winter morning, the holiday spirit was in the air and Ally had this feeling it was going to be a good day. Arriving a few minutes early and with an extra cup of coffee, she hangs her jacket up and pulls out the files she needs as Trish comes stomping in and mumbling under her breath.

"Good morning, Trish," Ally grins, hoping her friend's attitude isn't as bad a she's projecting.

"Morning, Alls," Trish half smiles as she makes her way to her desk.

"Are you still mad at me?" Ally asks hesitantly, hating to bring up the subject again, but needing to know.

Trish sees the coffee on her desk, refocuses on Ally and lets out a sigh as she responds," No, I'm not mad at you. I was never mad at you. Shocked as hell and confused, but never mad. I just can't believe you're actually dating Austin Moon."

"Would it be weird if I agree with you?" Ally inquires, her cheeks turning pink.

"No," Trish laughs. "You're in the beginning stages. It's normal to have these feelings. And I know I told you to give him a chance because you needed to, I just don't understand why you didn't tell me. I heard the whispers around town and had to read about it in the side column of the city's newspaper."

"I know and I'm so sorry. I was going to tell you, honest. But I was scared. I don't know from what, but I was. And then you read about it, confronted me and my whole plan went out the window," Ally confesses, looking down to her lap.

"Sorry I ruined your plan," Trish grins, knowing Ally probably worked really hard to come up with a way to tell her everything. That's how Ally is. "And, I can understand your reservation. Your last boyfriend wasn't exactly what you thought. Hell, he fooled us all. I know were only protecting yourself."

"Thanks, Trish. For everything. I don't know how I would've survived without you," Ally admires, Trish's compassion helping her through her darkest of days.

"You don't need to thank me for anything. We're best friends. We'll always be best friends and I'll always have your back. Just, keep me in the loop, okay?" Trish winks, her smile easing Ally's remorse.

"You got it," Ally beams as they start on their work for the day.

OoOoOoOo

Austin walks into his building with a huge smile on his face and once he gets to his office, Kira is waiting for him with an expression that can be read multiple ways.

"Morning, Kira. Beautiful day isn't it?" Austin greets as he sets his briefcase on the floor.

"Hey, Austin. And yeah, today's a lovely day. Now, I hate to rain on your parade and ruin your good mood, but dad wants to see you in his office. Like, right now," she orders with a tight smile.

"Alright, thanks," Austin nods, following Kira out the door.

The two walk in silence down the hall until they approach the boss's office. With a quick wave goodbye Kira rushes off as Austin takes a deep breath before knocking on the door.

"Come in," the voice booms from the other side.

"Morning, Jimmy. You wanted to see me?" Austin questions, opening the door so half his body is through.

"Ah, Austin. Yes, come in and take a seat. We have a few things to discuss," Jimmy waves with a friendly smile.

Austin nods and takes a seat as Jimmy leans back in his chair and stares at the young man, deciding which direction to go. Austin feels his heart rapidly beating and his palms start to sweat, but keeps his composure, not wanting Jimmy to see him as weak.

"So, how have your cases been going? Keeping you busy?" Jimmy finally starts the conversation after a few minutes of silence.

"My cases have been good. I've won the last five and settled three. And yeah, I've been a little busy. Some days I don't know what day it is, but it's nothing I can't handle," Austin answers honestly along with a smile.

"That's great to hear. You're making this company proud and known. And that's exactly what we need to thrive. Also, I know what you mean. The days get all mixed up and you end up flustered and forgetful," Jimmy replies casually, adding to the conversation.

"Exactly!" Austin agrees, feeling himself relax a little bit.

"Is that why you didn't tell me about you and Ms. Dawson? Because you forgot?" Jimmy inquiries with a raised eyebrow and setting Austin up.

"Um, about that." Austin stutters. "I didn't forget. I just didn't know how to tell you."

"Austin," Jimmy sighs, leaning forward to put his elbows on his desk. "I never want you not to be able to talk to me. I know I put you in an uncomfortable position and I apologize for that. I never should have suggested it. To be honest, I felt threatened by a New York City lawyer coming in and potentially ruining our business. But Ms. Dawson has done no such thing and is actually a really intelligent and talented woman. She sure as hell is giving us a run for our money, but it's all healthy competition. I'm happy for you, Austin. You deserve happiness, to be allowed to date whoever you want and I'm glad it's Ally. You two seem like a good pair."

"Thanks, Jimmy. That means a lot. I like her. So much. And I'm sorry about our 'arrangement'," Austin apologizes, feeling bad for not following through.

"If you like her, hold on to her. And don't worry about it Austin. Arrangements are meant to be changed. Just next time, talk to me," Jimmy reminds in a fatherly tone.

"I will," Austin promises with a nod.

"Good. And now that that's all settled, I need your help with another case. Do you have time?" Jimmy moves onto more pressing matters.

"I have this morning, tomorrow morning and if all goes well, I'll be free all next week," Austin replies, trying to remember his schedule off the top of his head.

"Okay. I'll just give you the file to read up on when you have a free moment and we'll try to meet next week," Jimmy suggests, handing Austin a relatively good size folder.

"Whoa," Austin exhales, flipping through the first few pages.

"I know. It's quite a read. But like I said before, take your time and we'll work on this accordingly. Good luck with your case today," Jimmy finishes with a smile and leaning back in his chair again.

"Thanks and I'll see you next week," Austin nods goodbye as he exits the room with the folder under his arm.

Once outside, Austin leans against the wall and lets out a deep breath. That wasn't as bad as he thought and maybe, with everything out in the open, things will start to settle down.

Jimmy watched the door close and also exhales a breath. He was feeling conflicted at the moment and wasn't sure how to cope. Of course he was disappointed in Austin for lying to him and hooking up with the enemy, but at the same time and like he said, Ally hasn't done anything to Starr Inc. and Austin deserves to be happy and date whoever he wants. He's a nice looking young man and should start thinking about settling down soon. With the right girl of course. Even if it's Ally. That young woman has potential and even though she's kept her distance and to herself, he's still going to be watching her and looking out for his business and friend. He needs to protect them both. At any cost.

OoOoOoOo

The following week Ally and Trish were working on their other cases when a man, probably in his forties enters their office with a polite smile.

"Hello," Ally welcomes. "Is there anything we can help you with?"

"Hi. Are you Ms. Dawson or Ms. DeLaRosa?" the gentleman questions, looking between two women.

"I'm Ms. Dawson. And you are?" Ally asks civilly.

"Ms. Dawson, it's a pleasure to meet you. And, I'm sorry for not introducing myself sooner. I'm Dustin Wolfe and I work with Bass Bankers Investments," the gentleman now known as Dustin Wolfe shares, focusing on Ally.

"Mr. Wolfe," she nods curtly. "As much as I'm interested in why you're here, I'm going to have to ask you to leave. I'm not jeopardizing my case."

"That's actually why I'm here. After reviewing the lawsuit, we've come to decision and would like to meet with you as soon as possible," Mr. Wolfe explains, staying in the same spot.

"I'm free tomorrow morning. Will nine o' clock work for you?" Ally responds, trying to process everything.

"That would be fine. Thank you and I'm sorry for the impromptu visit," Mr. Wolfe apologizes as he gives Ally and Trish stuck wave goodbye.

The two watch him drive away and then share a look of confusion.

"Okay. What the hell that?" Trish inquires, looking out the window and then back to Ally.

"I have no idea," Ally shrugs her shoulders.

"Do you believe him?" Trish continues, taking her seat and drumming her fingers on her desk.

"A part of me wants to and I'll be so glad when this case is over. We've been working on it for months now," Ally replies, retaking her seat and wanting to think positive thoughts.

"You've been working on this for months. I just randomly help out every once in a while, but I agree. This case has taken up a lot of time. Are you really going to meet tomorrow?" Trish wonders curiously.

"None the less, you've been a great help. I really appreciate it. And I am. I mean, they'd be stupid to make plans and then not follow through," Ally points out.

"That's true. I just, I don't know. I get this weird feeling about it," Trish mutters, looking at Ally nervously.

"Me too. But we need this," Ally utters, shifting files around on her desk, trying to keep busy.

"I know. And if anything gets weird, you call me, immediately," Trish announces, giving Ally a serious look.

"Don't worry. I will," Ally smiles as they go back to work with the thought of tomorrow looming in the background.

OoOoOoOo

The next morning, bright and early, Ally gets ready for what she can hope will be a good day. Grabbing her files on the case, she yells goodbye to Trish who's right behind her and about to leave for their office.

"Good luck, Als," Trish exclaims, grabbing her coffee mug.

"Thanks. I'll see you at the office later," Ally finishes as she out the door and speed walking to her car.

The whole drive to the courthouse, Ally gives herself a pep talk and runs through her speech in case things went sideways. She knew what kind of business Bass Investments was and the power they hold, but she was not going to let them get away with what they did. Those greedy jerks were going to get put in their place.

She finds parking towards the back of the parking lot and as she walking up the stairs, she's greeted by her boyfriend.

"Hey, babe. What are you doing here? I didn't know you had court today," Austin asks with a smile as he walks down to join her.

"I don't. It's actually a last minute meeting. What are you doing here? I thought your case was over?" Ally probes as he kisses her cheek.

"That one, yes. This is a small one. I have court at nine-thirty," Austin answers with a smile.

"A new one? Or one from before?" Ally inquires with interest as they make their way inside.

"One from before?" Austin whispers. "You don't know how long I've been waiting."

"I can bet a while. I can understand that. And I really want to hear more about your case, but I have to go. I'm so sorry Austin," Ally apologizes, giving Austin a hug.

"Don't worry Als. We both have jobs to do. But how about we enjoy a nice evening with a romantic dinner? We can talk about our day and it'll be just you and me," Austin proposes with an attractive smile.

"Don't give me that smile and dinner sounds absolutely perfect," Ally laughs, leaning up to kiss Austin's cheek.

"You love that smile and I'll pick you up around seven," Austin smirks as he gives Ally a proper kiss on the lips that makes her knees go weak.

"Bye," Ally sighs contently as they pull apart.

"Bye," Austin copies, sending a wink to Ally as she blushes and then makes her way to the meeting.

When she arrives, Mr. Wolfe is already seated with another gentleman who looks around the same age as him on his left. Both seem very professional as she takes a long breath and then greets the two as she enters the small room. They all shake hands before Ally takes her across from them. Shrugging off her jacket and placing her bag at her feet, she gathers her thoughts and composes herself stating honestly, "I was very surprised you asks for this meeting, but I do appreciate it."

"Thank you and we thought you would be considering we haven't been very open with you or this case. We're sorry it's sudden, but just recently, we've finally come to a decision that we think will benefit everyone," Mr. Wolfe explains confidently, pulling out a packet of papers out of his briefcase and sliding then over to Ally.

"Is this all part of your proposal?" she questions, skimming through the top papers.

"It's actually a settlement deal," the other gentleman answers as Ally's eye widen in shock.

"A settlement?" Ally repeats and then really focuses on the first page.

"Yes, we're settling," Mr. Wolfe confirms with a simple nod. "We know you want justice for your clients and we want to keep our credibility and reputation. We feel this is a win, win situation," as Ally doesn't look up and is still reading over the documents.

"Maybe so. But I'm going to have to read through all of this and discuss it with my clients. The earliest I can get back to you would be a few days," Ally finally counters, looking up to face the two gentlemen.

"Understandable. Here's my card. Just call me when you're ready," Mr. Wolfe finishes, handing Ally his business card before standing up and extending a hand.

Ally politely shakes both gentlemen's hands and gathers her things as Mr. Wolfe and his colleague leave the room, allowing her finally catch her breath. This was actually happening and she couldn't be more pleased and proud.

Arriving back at the office earlier than anticipated, Ally surprised Trish who had a perplexed expression on her face.

"I don't know if you being back this soon is a good or bad thing," she mumbles as she watches Ally casually stroll over to her desk.

"The meeting went well, if that makes you feel better?" Ally shares lightly, pulling out the settlement paperwork.

"I don't know yet. And what are you reading?" Trish inquires, standing up to get a better look.

"They drew up a settlement deal," Ally says, holding up and showing Trish the papers.

"No, shit. They finally did something?" she gasps in surprise.

"Oh, yeah. And get this; they're giving each person and or couple one million or two million dollars to make up for lost accounts and to make sure this gets buried," Ally shares with wide eyes.

"What?" Trish coughs out in disbelief as she rushes over to Ally's desk to read the settlement herself.

"That's what it says right there, right? I'm not just seeing things," Ally whispers and she points to where she was just reading.

"Yep, it says that all right. I can't believe they're selling their biggest stock for this. But at least they're making things right. Do you think the others will go for this?" Trish wonders, leaning against the desk.

"I think they will. These people aren't about the payoff, but I know they want Bass to fix their wrongdoings," Ally clarifies, biting her lower lip.

"Everyone wants that," Trish utters. "So, when are you going to tell them?"

"I was going to call everyone after I finished reading over everything," Ally sighs, leaning back in her chair to think for a second.

"Good luck. Let me know if you need anything," Trish smiles as she pats Ally's shoulder before walking back to her own desk.

Close to four o'clock, Ally and Trish finally call their clients and are able to set up a meeting at six that evening, wanting to get this underway so they can start moving on from this. Both lawyers agree on their decision as Trish goes to make copies of the settlement so everyone can read it for themselves and Ally calls Austin, hating but needing to reschedule their dinner date.

"Austin Moon," he greets professionally into the phone.

"Hi, Austin. It's Ally," Ally says in a semi-happy tone.

"Hey, babe. What's up?" he wonders in his very charming voice.

"Nothing much, just work. The case I'm working on got a settlement deal today," Ally mentions, hoping he'll understand what she's getting at.

"That's great, I think. Is that what you wanted?" Austin probes interestedly.

"I honestly didn't know exactly what we wanted. We wanted justice, that's for sure. But I think this settlement is a good thing," Ally answers, still trying to figure it out.

"Well, I'm happy for you, Als. You deserve it," Austin praises.

"Thanks, Austin. That means lot," Ally smiles, touched by Austin's kindness. "And I hate to have to do this, but can I get a raincheck on dinner tonight? I'm so sorry."

"Don't apologize. Work's more important than our dinner date. And believe it or not, but I do understand," Austin waves off because knows just what she's going through.

"I feel bad, Aus," Ally exhales, feeling guilty.

"Don't, Ally. We can always meet up another time," Austin assures her.

"You're the best," Ally grins, falling even harder for the guy on the other line. "How about lunch tomorrow?"

"Lunch sounds perfect. I'll miss you tonight and good luck," Austin murmurs tenderly.

Ally's heart flutters as she feel her cheeks starting to blush. "Good, I can't wait. I'll miss you too and thanks you," she beams as they hang up.

The next hour seems to go by painfully slow, but once the first few people arrive, Ally perks up and is ready. Trish hands out the paperwork as Ally explains what Bass is giving them and what their options are. Each person and couple read the papers, look at Ally and then read the paper again not trusting the writing.

Minutes of silence surround the office as Ally and Trish share a look of uncertainty as they can't read their clients' body language and have no idea what's going to happen.

"So, Bass is giving us two million dollars without any strings?" Amanda, an older woman questions in bewilderment.

"It appears so. If you have any reservations about it, please tell me," Ally voices firmly, requiring her clients to fully understand the terms.

"Well, it's a generous offer, but what about what they did?" Tom, the oldest of the group yells out.

Everyone choruses in agreement as Ally recognizes their point.

"I know," she nods. "What do you want to do about it?"

The group shares looks and then huddle together as Ally and Trish excuse themselves and head into the kitchen to give their clients' privacy as they don't want to hinder the groups ideas and opinions. This is their decision and their life. The two of them are only there to help them get what they deserve.

Ally and Trish chat about nonsense for about forty minutes until Goldie comes back to get them with a small smile on her face.

"Have you guys come up with a unanimous decision?" Ally questions eagerly.

"Yes," Goldie nods with relief.

"Okay," Ally smiles as she follows the young woman back to the group.

"Ms. Dawson, we've decided to take half of what they're offering us and they need to write a statement about what happened. They don't have to go into full detail because we want this to drag on even longer, but they need to acknowledge their flaws and apologize," Daniel, a middle aged man announces the second Ally enters the room.

She smiles and writes down everything as she's so grateful for her clients.

"Perfect. I'll set up a meeting and let you all know how it goes," she adds as the group thanks her for all she's done and her tireless support.

Saying quick goodbyes and sharing hugs, once the office is empty, Ally searches through her bag for the business card and then glances down at her watch to see it's almost eight o'clock. Thinking it's not too late, which it necessarily isn't, she dials the number and feels the butterflies erupt in her stomach as the line just rings and rings.

"Hello?" the deep voice answers after the forth ring.

"Mr. Wolfe, hi. It's Ally Dawson," Ally greets in a calming voice.

"Ms. Dawson, what a surprise. What can I do for you?" Mr. Wolfe replies, his tone becoming more enthusiastic.

"I'm sorry for calling this late. I hope I'm not interrupting your evening?" Ally apologizes, debating if she made the right choice.

"It's no problem and don't worry. Nothing much is happening on my end. Is something the matter?" Mr. Wolfe probes curiously.

"Okay, good. I would feel terrible if I was disturbing your night," Ally explains before taking a few breaths. "And no, everything's fine with me. Thank you asking. I know you're startled to hear from me; it's just that, I've read the settlement, talked it over with my clients and we've come up with another deal. Nothing drastic or unreasonable. Just a few changes."

"Oh, okay," Mr. Wolfe mumbles nervously. "Are you able to share the information? If you are, I'll call Mr. Moore to let him know and that way, we can all discuss this tomorrow and come out with a final verdict."

"Of course," Ally agrees. "Let me begin by saying your settlement deal was very generous and my clients appreciate the funding you're giving back to them. However, we feel that though you're mending the bridge between customers and business, you still need to tell the public what happened. And before you yell and fight me on this, please hear me out. Our new deal is to take half of what you're offering, so it's down to one million and half a million and a statement. The statement doesn't have to include everything, but people deserve the truth."

Silence comes from the other end and Ally anxiously bites her lip and shakes her leg as it feels like an eternity before Mr. Wolfe finally speaks. "That's all to the new offer?" he questions.

"Yes," Ally answers quickly.

"Okay, then. We'll meet tomorrow, same time and we'll have a final deal. Thank you for calling. Good night, Ms. Dawson," Mr. Wolfe concludes as the line goes dead.

Ally places the phone back on the receiver and takes a few deep breaths as nerves overtake her. This was it. The final leg. And it felt so good.

OoOoOoOo

Sleep was nonexistent and when Ally enters the small meeting room the next morning and sees Mr. Wolfe coming in from the other door, anticipation grows by the second.

"Good morning, Ms. Dawson," Mr. Wolfe is the first to speak as they both set their belongings on the empty table.

"Good morning, Mr. Wolfe," Ally smiles.

"I'm just going to get started and say, first off, I appreciate your dedication and seriousness to this case. I'll admit, I was shocked to hear back from you so soon, but thank you for not drawing this out," Mr. Wolfe begins with a friendly attitude. "Now, about the new settlement. We understand your reasoning and though it may tarnish the company for a little bit, we're willing to work something out with you," as he hands her a signed piece of paper.

"Thank you, Mr. Wolfe. You've got yourself a deal," Ally nods fortunately, glancing down at the paper and extending a hand.

The two share a quick goodbye as a sense of relief fills the air. Ally can't believe that she went up against one of the biggest Investment Company's in Charleston and came out with this outcome. That's a definitely a highlight in her career and a plus in her book.

OoOoOoOo

The day rolled on and just when Jimmy was about to leave his office for the night, his phone rings and pauses his plans. Slowly reaching for the device, he answers, "Hello?"

"Jimmy, hey. Sorry to call this late, I know you were just about to head out, but this can't wait," the voice says in a rush.

"It's not a problem," Jimmy replies casually. "So, what couldn't wait until morning?"

"You know Bass Investments, right?" the person continues, cautiously.

"Of course I do. We've worked them for years. Are they in trouble?" Jimmy nervously inquires.

"They were. Apparently they were getting sued, but worked out a contract and decided to settle. And guess who the fucking opposing lawyer was?" the person pushes with a mixture of shock and disapproval.

"Who?" Jimmy demands, his voice rising and wanting to get to the bottom of this.

"Ally Dawson," the person states in anger.

And, there you go folks. Please let me know what you think.

Thanks and until next time,

Missy xx