Sorry it took so long fro this update! It has been a busy few days. I hope you all love it. As always thank you again for all the comments, follows and favorites! You are so encouraging.

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Logan:

I awoke to the sensation of pins and needles spreading through out my right arm, a welcoming feeling as I saw the source of my cut off blood flow curled into the crook of my arm. I fought the sensation to move my arm a moment longer as I studied her peaceful face, pulling it out slowly as she curled deeper into the mattress, a cute expression crossing her face as she made the adjustment.

It was 7 am and I checked my phone and hers to make sure there were no calls from the hospital, then crawled out of bed. I use to hate morning hours but in the last years, since my Navy days, I have actually become quite a morning person. The only thing that use to get me out of bed before 10 am had been surfing, but now- I actually chose to. I liked the way I felt that the world was still. I could drink coffee, make breakfast- and just sit.

I had learned to work Keith's coffee maker these last few days, and was thankful for the large quantities it made- me and Veronica together could put it away. I made my way to the bathroom, peering in to check on her-she was still out and how deep into the state of rest she was made me happy. Veronica and I had never been ones that had the benefit of peaceful sleep, all those inner demons and all. The only time we had ever had a sense of a normalcy, when we let our hair down- had relaxed- had been when we were together. But now- even in just the couple of days together, it was even better than before. Like it did not matter what all was going on around us, in that moment of being next to each other, holding the other- everything was right.

I threw on the old t-shirt of mine that she had kept from all those years ago- the old friend bringing back all of it's memories as I pulled it over my head. I smirked as I straightened it, I had thought this had gone missing a long time ago, it never dawning one me that she had kept it. Her sweet fragrance brushed across my face as I adjusted the collar, and I breathed it in. I would never get use to that feeling- the one where she was no longer a memory or dream, but actual reality. I picked up the rest of my belongings, putting them in the pockets of my jeans as I prepared to leave. I had run out of clothes and knew it was time for a stop by Dick's to grab the rest of my things- I had not been able to bring myself to leave her and do it, but I had pushed it off as long as I could.

I balanced the cup of coffee in my hand as I wrote a note in case she woke, but I hoped I could be back before she did. I placed it by the coffee pot, hitting the keep warm feature as I headed to the door, a sweet smile of contentment on my face as I remembered the last time I had done such actions. Writing a note and heading to the door- her appearing around the corner in only this shirt, my shirt.

I walked out the door, the chirping sound of my car unlocking filling my ears as I made my way down the steps. Life comes at you fast- mine was always changing- had been since I was a teenager. It always seemed to find a way to go from bad to worst, the only consistency in it being that it seemed she and I always found our way back to each other.

I enjoyed the sense of security in her, my love for her had been the only thing that had been permanent- even when she had been physically absent the feelings still stayed. It had been those feelings that had helped me push through, but now that she was here- where I could see her, feel her, taste her- where I could be with her, and all felt right. The skies seemed bluer, the sun brighter- the normal dread and doom of what was ahead lacking as all I could do was hope for one more day like this.

But-with the same consistency of how my life played out- there was a truth looming over me. The reality that this blissful state could unravel- I was cleared of charges which meant I left for deployment in 14 days and that thought made me ill

I had not mentioned it before-before that night when everything changed. I had been actually looking forward to it, hoping and praying I could be cleared of the awful murder charges so I could go- after all it was about all I had left. But that was before she was back in my life- this way- and now everything I had was here. Sure I had signed up for this job, they were my second family and I was damn good at the job. It had given me a since of purpose, I was making a difference in the world- but that path as much as I would never change it- it still would take me far away from her.. And I just got her back.

I had not told her yet, after her dad's accident I felt bad to throw another thing on her, but I knew I had to- soon. I had to give her a chance to get out before she got involved deeper, it was only fair- because six months of wondering if I was going to make it home alive was a lot to deal with. My stomach clenched as I continued to drive, turning onto the road that led to the drive that Dick's house was on. Old Veronica- she would run as fast as she could from this. I took a sharp intake of breath as I pulled into the driveway, the thought of her leaving again left me un-settled. Maybe it was the fear of how I knew things normally played out for me, or the idea of losing her again. What if she could not handle it? I mean two days together- that was not enough to permit her to stay right? And after all we had never discussed what exactly "this" was.

Dick was collapsed on the couch, mindlessly flipping through the channels when I walked in. The burdened lives of us trust fund babies, though I guess it was a fair prize considering the fathers we had.

He popped up. "Dude, where have you been?" He pushed his long bangs out of his eyes as they slanted in question at me.

I swallowed. I had not broken the news to Dick about Veronica and me, he was about to have a conniption. But who could blame the guy for the disdain right? He was the one that had to deal with me each time I fell into pieces. "Did you hear about Mr. Mars?"

He stood. "Yeah, I did- and that you were the one that saved him. Also that you are a free man and that our bud Stu murdered your ex and Gia, our old pal. Thanks for checkin in, man."

"Dick, I am sorry. It has just been crazy."

He nodded. "I am sure." He leaned against the table." So how is Veronica?" He said accusatory tone.

"You know, a mixture of a lot of emotions." My jaw clenched as I could feel all waves of those emotions crossing across my face as well.

"So you two huh?"

I smirked. "How did you know?"

"Well, it is you- first of all." He walked over to me a smile on his face now. "And you have been gone two days straight and well, you two have been eye banging each other all week." He chuckled. "Ronnie's detective skills have rubbed off on me." He paused seeming more serious. "So dude, you really want to jump back on that train of heart ache and misery?"

I walked over to the fridge grabbing a drink. "Well, who said I ever got off?" I laughed.

"Yeah, never fully but, you had one foot on the ground which was progress. Now you have jumped back in- seatbelt and all."

"Yeah, well it's Veronica."

"And what does she say to the fact you are leaving in a few weeks?"

My face fell, as I studied the intricate details of the granite counters. "She doesn't know yet."

"Well, you know how well she does when she thinks she is going to get hurt- I bet that news will go over real well." He fired.

I felt my temper rise, the way it made my cheeks turn a red tone a reminder of my father- something I hated as I could fee it stretch across my face. "So are you just trying to curse it?" I snapped with venom.

"No, I am trying to keep you from getting your heart smashed again by Veronica Mars. I am sorry if I see this playing out badly- you devastated and her running, like she always does."

"Veronica, is different, okay- she wants-"

"Fine, man. Sorry if I have a hard time believing that she will be okay with it. You and this new life you have- how do you think she will fit into it? That girl is all absorbed in you when you are together- you never can be just partially involved with her. But it's not like you can take her on deployment right?"

"Like I said, It's Veronica- I will make it work." I cleared my throat, hating the tense air between me and my usually care free friend. "Now I need to go pack some stuff."

I wasn't sure if it was the fact that Dick confirmed out loud the greatest fears that were running through my head- or if it was the fact that I was actually leaving. Hearing someone else actually say it- made it true. I was leaving in two weeks.

I hesitated as I picked at my clothes in the small dresser, behind the curtain in the living room. I could feel Dick's eyes on me as my hands lingered on the items. Seemed what I grabbed would determine my hope for the this relationship. Another few shirts? Or 14 days worth? I inhaled deeply as I pulled out all the drawers contents, placing them in the duffle bag.

Veronica:

I stretched my hands along the sheets, the were innately searching for him. Coming up empty my eyes opened- the first thought if it had all been just a dream as the last two days played back in my head. I stretched, eyeing the room around me as I let all my senses explore where he might be. He was unusually quiet- I had known Logan a long time and he had always been loud when up and about- though he tried his best not to be. I wrapped my arms around me tightly, the tshirt I was wearing leaving most of my legs exposed as I explored the small bungalow. I peered around each corner, his cologne was still lingering in the air.

My brow furrowed as I walked to the blinds, his car missing from the drive, and my heart falling at the sight. It was dramatic- assuming worst case scenario. Maybe it was my own guilt playing on me, but my first thought was that he had left- for good. Maybe he had done to me what I did to him all those years ago, and I sat on the couch as my knees buckled at the thought. It would be poetic justice that's for sure. I steadied my breaths as the old habits of distrust and bad conclusions tried to filter from my mind, the smell of coffee catching my nose.

There was a full pot, on the keep warm cycle and I smiled as I saw the note placed right by an empty mug.

Well, I officially ran out of clothes. Had to venture out to get some more supplies- did not want to wake you. I will be back soon, hopefully before you are up. I will come bringing breakfast.

Until then enjoy some caffeine.

L

I inhaled the aroma of the liquid life and poured it in the glass. Was this what being domestic was? No drama- making coffee for the other, leaving sweet notes? I had no idea why I had been so against it-

I sat at the table as I sipped at the cup, the news feed on my phone exploding with the news of Logan's freedom and the sheriff's incriminating video. Ah, all was right with the world.

My eyes landed on the photo framed on the desk across from me, a token of my dad and I on our New York trip that summer after senior year. I pursed my lips togethers as the darkening thoughts of his state plagued my mind. No news was good news right? And I would be seeing him soon-I just needed to see him.

I swallowed the last bit, and headed for the bathroom to get ready for the day. I wanted to be ready when Logan arrived to go see my dad, I was aching to see him and suddenly the minutes felt like they were wasting away as I grew more conscious of the fact that he was alone and I could actually be with him.

I slipped the cream colored sweater over my head, as I heard the front door creak open. Logan smirked as I walked around the corner- him holding a bag of food in his hand and a duffle bag hanging from his shoulder. I smiled at the size of it - he was planning on staying awhile, and that was just what I wanted. I loved the sight of him- a grin growing at my lips as I recognized the shirt he was wearing. Images of old and new played side by side- as I saw the younger, necklace sporting and spiky haired version, and the now more mature and polished version. Both had the same shirt and both were equally appealing. No matter what Logan was-whether the young hot shot, or the more rounded and together version- he always had me.

"Good morning." He said as his eyes traveled down me, the way he had always looked at me was like a serious hit to the chest- always knocking the wind out of me.

"Good morning. You re-stock?" I gestured my eyes to the bag.

He placed it down as he chuckled. "Yeah, I should be covered now." He placed the bag of food down now on the table as he headed to the cabinet for plates. "I got you one of those Mcgriddle things. You still like them?" He asked unsure. When we dated I had eaten them obsessively for the first few weeks of freshman year, swinging by the drive thru on the way in to class. I smirked at him for remembering- they were a guilty pleasure.

"More like love." I interjected as I excitedly sat down.

He placed the plate in front of me as he leaned down. "I try to please." He smiled sweetly as his mouth was now inches from mine, him pushing my hair back delicately as he kissed me. "How did you sleep?" He asked pulling away, his lips still at my mouth as he spoke.

I caught my breath, his kisses- each one unique and different, but each leaving me at a loss of words after their impact. "Uh, good- you?"

He sat down, looking up affectionately, like he had a million things to say but his mouth said very little "Great."

I took a large bite, talking over it as my eyes flirtatiously slanted at him. "Nice shirt."

He looked down with a proud smile. "Yeah I recently found this thing- been looking for it for years."

"Hm, and you think it is yours again?" I fired back playfully.

"Well it is my shirt."

"Finders keepers."

"Well, promise to take good care and give me visiting rights?"

I leaned forward on to my elbows. "How about joint custody?"

He looked down as he took a bite, his reaction less playful than I was expecting. He seemed weighed down with issues far greater than a shirt. "Sounds like a plan."

We both dug into the food, and my eyes lingered on him as he looked away. He was different today. I bit my lip as I pulled the tasty breakfast sandwich from my mouth, my appetite decreasing by the expression on his face. I did not know what was going on- but my ability to jump to worst case scenario was playing against me. He caught my eyes again, him forcing a smile.

"Is it good?"

I nodded as I made myself take another bite. "Yeah, delicious."

One disadvantage to being so in tune with the other as we could call the other's BS- seems he sensed my shift in mood as his eyes narrowed. "You okay?" But seems he actually had the guts to ask me about my problems.

"Uh, yeah just my dad-" I cringed a little. First fib- I mean I was upset about my dad, but this look of pure sickness on my face? It was all due to the fears of losing- you.

He did not call me on the lie if he caught it. "Yeah, well we can go see him as soon as you want." He sweetly reached across the table grabbing my hand.

I smiled at the interaction as I could still feeling the strong level of connection between us as we touched. "Maybe once we are done eating?"

"Of course." He swallowed. "So, you see the news?"

"Yes, seems Sheriff Lamb is having a bad day."

"Appears so. He messed with the wrong blond."

"Yes those Lambs always seem to underestimate me." I added with a smirk as I wrapped the remainder of the sandwich up into the paper.

"Never underestimate Veronica Mars- that is something I learned long ago." He said with all his usual cunning wit as he copied me, wrapping up the remainder of his food.

"I sound like a warning add or something." I laughed.

"Well, you are unexpected." He smiled. "You have a way of shocking people- whether it be with your fine detective skills, your strength- especially for how tiny you are." He pinched at my muscles. "Or by planting kisses on you at random, sleazy hotels."

My eyes lit up as I smacked him. "The way you said that makes me sound disgusting."

He threw his hands up as he laughed, standing to his feet collecting our trash. "Hey I liked it. You changed me that day- I am not complaining of its location."

I looked up, my eyes dancing with delight. "Yeah, well you had a way of surprising me too." I paused as the teasing vibe transitioned to a more serious one. "You weren't the only one that changed that day."

Our eyes locked, his getting a deeper depth to them, the way they always did when I was able to express myself. I never could quite take the intensity of that look, the feelings that filled every ounce of me overwhelming as I could feel the level of emotions to the very essence of who I was. I shifted my glance as I played at my nails.

"You ready to go see your dad?"

I looked up again with a smile, he always knew how to handle me. "Yeah, let's go."

Logan dropped me at the hospital entrance as he went to find a parking spot. I watched him from the lobby as he parked the convertible and made his way in- the presence of turmoil was clearly written on his face when he thought I wasn't watching.

The car ride had been quieter than usual, though he was still tender and kind- but he was somewhere else. His head was full of a million things- I could see that behind his eyes, yet I could not work up the courage to ask. What if all those doubts I am sure I planted in his mind over the last decade were catching up to him? What if I had jinxed us before we even had a shot?

He walked through the lobby doors, seeming stunned to see me waiting on him, panic filling his eyes as to what I had witnessed and then it relaxing into a warming smile. He wasn't volunteering this information.

"You ready?" He asked.

"Yeah." I pressed the button to call the elevator as my heart thudded in my chest- the mixture of seeing my dad physically hurt in person again and the doubts of Logan made my body shake. I felt his hand on mine as he laced our fingers together, the reassurance of the touch making the beats steady.

He held onto my hand through the elevator ride and down the hall and even into my dad's room. We were like high school kids, our touch so desperate and needed, but I didn't care- I felt that level of want for him.

The image of my dad- with wires and tubes, his bruises and cuts and assortment of casts. He looked worse that I thought. I brought my hands to my mouth as the blurry view of tears flooded my eyes- the sobs hanging in my throat, refusing to be released. Logan dropped my hand and placed it around my waist, pulling me in as he could sense it before it happened- my knees giving out.

The nurse looked at me sympathetically. "I will see if I can get the doctor in to give you an update." I nodded with a pathetic attempt at a smile, I could not speak now- the groans that would have escaped from my stifled crying would be pitiful.

Logan gently touched my skin at where my shirt rode up slightly, his tone calm and supportive as he spoke. "He is doing well Veronica- they have told us that. He may look bad, but it could be far worse I am sure."

I nodded as I found the strength to step forward our hands connecting again for second as he balanced me as I moved. I approached the hospital bed slowly, my hands shaking as I reached out to touch his cut up ones, falling abruptly into the chair as my voice cracked. "Daddy." I forced a smile with a laugh, like I thought he could actually hear me. "It's me Veronica." I looked back at the calming set of brown eyes as he stepped closer. " I need you to wake up okay? Please."

There was no response as I stared back anxiously, like I actually believed he would respond, the sound of beeping machines my only answer. Just then the doctor knocked on the door, his presence at ease, making my gut wrenching aches subside. Even though he wore a cheerful disposition I could not bring myself to stand as he walked in, my knees too shaky.

"Hello, I am Dr. Morgan. We have spoke on the phone." He reached out to my hand and then Logan's. "Nice to meet you both." He glanced down at my dad's chart. "Your dad is doing well, considering all he has been through, he has continued to stay stable which is remarkable. I fully expect him to wake up either today or tomorrow based on some of the response tests we have done, though nothing is a hundred percent." He could see the bleak expression on my face as he stepped closer. "Miss. Mars, I am not saying we are out of the woods, but I am saying I believe your father is on the right path. It is just a wait and see thing now."

I nodded. "Thank you for taking care of him."

"It is my pleasure. Let the nurse know if you have any questions for me okay?"

"We will, thank you, doctor." Logan jumped in shaking his hand goodbye.

I now felt his strong hand on my back. "What can I do for you?" He asked with sincere concern.

I studied the man in front of me- so battered and worn, and I felt helpless. There was nothing I could do but wait- and that is what I would do. "I just need to be with him- just he and I. I just need to stay and wait." My words came out like incomplete thoughts and I looked Logan's way to see if he had understood. "Is that okay?"

He smiled in understanding, he always knew my father was so important to me. That our relationship was unique. It had been just us against the world for so long. "Yes, of course. I will go run errands, you stay as long as you like. Just call when you are ready."

I reached out for his hand and he immediately responded."Okay, I will."

He kissed the top of my forehead as he walked toward the door my eyes back on my broken father. "Call me if you need anything okay?" He said.

My eyes glanced back at him and I felt a peace fill me at the sight- he had always been the one to take care of me when my world turned upside down, and right now all these years passed and he was still doing it.

"Thank you, Logan. Really. Thank you." I said as meaningful as I could, hoping he could read into all I meant with each emphasis.

"Always." He smiled, before tapping the door, and making his exit.

Always-

Keith:

The sound of TV went from a lulled mixture of jumbled sounds- becoming crisper as my eyes slowly opened. The stinging sensation of the sun hitting them made them water and I peered through squinted eyes at the small hospital room; the television bringing back my attention as the news headlines flashed of Logan's exoneration and the sheriff's intimate moments exposed.

I smirked. This had my daughter written all over it. My eyes settled on her curled into a ball in one of the chairs. The sight of her always made me pleased- I had missed her tremendously over the years she had been gone, but I never voiced it too much. I never wanted her to stay bound by guilt of leaving me. Seems she was still here though, that making me happy and worried.

The TMZ reporters continued. "I bet I know exactly what the people of Neptune are wanting."

"Yeah me too. A new sheriff."

I rolled my eyes. Here we go again. I had been on a back and forth seesaw with this town for almost 15 years. They love me, they love me not- I had a feeling the "loving stage" was approaching again. That is if I was ever getting out of "this" place.

I moved slightly the pain accompanied with it excruciating. I was pretty sure even my teeth hurt, as I pulled at the oxygen mask. I had more wires and machines hooked up to me than I could count, and I began to wonder how bad of shape I really was in. My memory was foggy on all that occurred, I faintly remembered my interactions with Sacks before the car hit us.

Sacks. I wonder how he ended up after our crash?

I moved again, this time a loud groan escaping me, causing Veronica's blue eyes to flash open. They were on me instantly as she stood, with a look of disbelief and then concern. She walked over, touching my arm as she hit the nurse call button.

"Hey dad. It's good to see you." She said as she blinked away tears keeping her voice calm. This girl always had to be a tough one.

I nodded with a smile behind the mask and she grabbed my hand as the nurse rushed in, a delighted expression on her weathered face as she made her way over to me.

"Mr. Mars. I am so glad to see you awake." She checked the monitors and then looked back to us. "I am going to alert the doctor that you are awake-I am sure he will want to look at you."

"Thank you." Veronica said, her laser eyes never leaving me. I knew that girl- she was fearful now that I was awake that if she took her eyes off me for a moment I would slip away. Control freak that one- I should know, she gets it from me.

I tried my hardest to squeeze her hand back,but the feeling in my hands was weak. I reached up for the oxygen mask to remove it but she stopped me. "No, dad, wait till the doctor give you the okay."

I exhaled deeply, shutting my eyes, as I nodded. I hated being weak, I hated this feeling. The pain hit again as I gritted my teeth and her body locked up, I could feel it through her touch. "Dad, you okay?"

I wanted to say so much, to ask her all the questions swirling in my head, figure out how long I had been out, but it was impossible to talk over this stupid mask. Just then the old doctor walked in, stopping by the side of my bed.

"Mr. Mars, you are quite a fighter."

I pointed to my nuisance and source of controlled oxygen, and he gently helped me remove it. "I don't feel like much of one right now." My words were breathy.

"Nonetheless you are. You have multiple fractures through out your body and we had to perform surgery to stop some internal bleeding. The fact that you are already awake after a little over 48 hrs is a great sign."

"So what now?" Veronica asked.

"Well, you have a long recovery in front of you. Hopefully you can be moved out of ICU soon, and into a normal room. But you will be in the hospital for awhile and after that have physical therapy for quite some time- but." He paused. "You are alive and that is a miracle."

"And Sacks? The other man in the car?" I asked.

Veronica spoke first. "I am sorry, Dad." Her eyes were full of sympathy. "He did not make it."

My stomach clenched with the news as my emotions took over, my eyes burning with tears as I looked at my beautiful daughter, so overwhelm with loss for Jerry and so happy to not have put Veronica in the state of grieving.

"You are lucky that young man was there to drag you out- if he had not then you would be in a totally different circumstance." The doctor added as he closed the chart and my brow scrunched in confusion. Young man? "I would like to run some tests here in a few minutes- but I will give you some time with your daughter. I will be back in ten okay?"

I took a deep breath, the feeling of each intake of air excruciating. "Thank you, doctor."

My eyes narrowed on Veronica and she touched the side of my face with a small sob. "I am so happy you are okay." She cleared her throat as she laughed. "You scared me to death- don't do that to me again!"

"You know honey, I really do try to avoid these situations- afraid it is occupational hazard." I lightly smiled before my face turned more solemn. "What young man- who was the doctor referring?"

She bit the edge of her lip as she lightly spoke. "Logan." Her eyes were staring into mine deeply. "It was Logan."

"He dragged me out?" I asked confused. "How was he even around?"

"I had invited him over to dinner- he had been walking up our steps when the crash happened. He ran over to check on the accident and then saw it was you. He started to call 911 but the car that hit you was coming back at full speed and- so he acted quickly, dragging you out." She shook a little as she finished. "I saw that last part."

My chest tightened as I looked at her- if there was two things that would make up a nightmare for her- it would be witnessing the death of her father and Logan Echolls. I knew she tried to deny how important of spot that boy held in her heart- but it was evident- he still affected her.

"So Logan saved my life huh?"

She nodded with a smile. "Yeah, he did."

"That boy is never short of surprises is he?" I smirked.

She laughed happily. "No, I guess not."

Veronica:

I watched as the hospital staff brought in a broth like substance for my dad and he looked at it in disgust as he ran his spoon through it.

"There is not something more, solid like?" He grinned up at the worker.

She chuckled. "Sorry, doctor's orders."

His eyes were on me now as she exited the room, a puppy dog expression filling them. "You want to get the old man a hamburger?"

I pushed my chin out firmly and commanded back, hiding my smile. "Nope, this slush is your meal. Now enjoy." I lifted a spoon full to his mouth.

He took a bite, showing his revulsion with each moment it was in his mouth and I laughed, so relieved to still have my stubborn father around.

We had spent a few hours together so far, mostly with him getting tests run, but now was our first moments of genuine alone time.

"So I saw the news report when I first awoke?"

I looked down with a proud grin. "Oh yeah?"

"Seems my daughter was up to a lot while I was resting?"

"Yeah, you could say that." I filled the spoon again, bringing it to his mouth and he grimaced before taking another bite.

"So Logan happy to be a free man?" He asked with the still lingering grimace the taste caused.

"Yeah." The mention of Logan made my heart light and heavy. The fact I was back in his life, the light- the thought he was about to be ripped away, the heavy. "Though we have all been preoccupied with worrying about you."

"And he is okay? No injuries after saving me?" He seemed genuinely concerned.

I shook my head. "Luckily he got you out just in time, before the car hit."

He nodded as his eyes were on me more intently and I fidgeted in my seat. I knew that look- I gave it to many of suspects as I interviewed them. It was the Mars assessing face. "So you two?"

I sat up straighter. "Us two?" I tried to respond indifferent.

"You are back together?" He smirked.

My face scrunched. "Wait, how-?"

"It doesn't take long when you know your daughter well." He pointed at me. "You my dear have an expression that I have only seen in a few instances of your life- and they always coincided with Logan Echolls."

"What?" I laughed trying to defuse how awkward I felt.

"That one- right there." He laughed. "Hate to break it to you kid, but you are not one for exuding happiness, but I get a glimpse of a more content version of you when he is around."

I looked down, not sure how to process what he said. He was right after all- the happiest I ever was with Logan, but still the feelings of vulnerability left me unnerved. Everyone could see the need, and that meant it was strong, I was desperate for him. "Well, I am not sure if we are together, it is just-"

"You still seeing Stosh?" My dad asked pointedly.

"No." I glared." I don't cheat."

He nodded with a knowing look all over his face and it stretching to how he carried his body. "Poor guy did not have a shot did he?"

I sighed resting my head on the bed. "No, not really." My voice sounded flat, my obvious guilt and turmoil all over my body language.

He touched my hair affectionately. " Veronica, you can't help who you love." I looked up through my hair at him. "Trust me, you and Logan." He blew air out his nose. "I have tried to analyze the two of you for years. There were times I was upset you were with him, others where I was never more glad. The boy has dark qualities, I am not denying that, he has come from a hard life. But I don't think he is bad, in fact I think he tries hard to not be what was modeled for him." He touched my hand. "And I have no doubt that he loves you." He paused. "You two have been explosive since you first connected that way, I guess me and everyone else involved should have learned long ago not to get in the middle of it. That being said, Stosh is a good guy, he is- a model of what a father wants. All except one thing, Veronica, my daughter doesn't love him."

"I tried to."

He ignored my last statement. "I am not sure Piz ever loved you like Logan does though. I don't know if anyone could quite feel as deeply as him. You can give the boy that- he is passionate." He sighed. "I knew it was only a matter of time once you set foot back here that this would happen. Maybe that is why I fought it so hard- I knew Logan would give you reason to stay."

"What you don't want me here?" I joked back.

"No, I do." He said seriously. "But I also want so much more for you than Neptune."

"Well, you are going to have to get use to me for awhile at least, I am staying with you while you heal."

He got that stubborn, smug look on his face. "Not if I have anything to say about it."

I leaned in. 'Sorry daddy-o. Doctor will probably agree with me."

He slanted his eyes at me. "You are stubborn, child."

"Got it from you." I fired back. "Now you get a reminder of what a pain you are through me." I smiled devilishly.

It was quiet for a moment and I spoke again. "So dad, what you said before. You have no doubt that- that Logan loves me." I pursed my lips before I continued. "How are you so sure?"

"And you aren't?" He raised an eyebrow.

"No, I mean I can tell, I was always able to. But I just wondered why you thought so, I guess."

"Well, a lot of reasons, honey. Even as misguided as he could be, I could always trust he would do anything to protect you. You two were volatile and young, but that kid under all that hurt, and walls- he loved you. I've been in love- I can tell." He smiled. "But I guess it was that day at Stanford with him where I really saw it."

My eyebrows pulled in, I was sure I had heard him wrong. "Stanford? What?"

"Well, I knew this would come out at some point." He seemed to think of how he wanted to tell me, and I waited expectantly. "Logan was a wreck when you left, and he showed up pretty wasted at my office one day. He just wanted to know where you were, and honestly as much as I hated having him drunk and around me- I felt sorry for him. He was miserable." My heart stung, the way an old scab does when you rip it open. "I told him I would show him where you ended up as long as he promised not to go talk to you. So we had a road trip and I used my cell phone tracking skills to pin point you in a parking lot ."

My mouth hung open, it dry. "And?" My voice indicated the cotton mouth I was having.

"And, he saw you right there in front of him and he followed my instructions, he did not make a break for it once. He just watched you and, finally told me he had to let you go." Keith ran his hand over his face. "He was willing to let you go for your own good- and I saw how much you meant to him."

I frowned. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Well, what good would his sacrifice be if I told you and you came running back?" He eyed me with an accusatory glance "And you would have come back."

I nodded."Yeah, you are right, I would have." I rubbed the corners of my head as I fought the head ache that I could feel was approaching. "Dad, why does it have to be so complicated? It always has been with him."

He laughed loudly. "You are asking your dad this? You don't think my ideals of perfection would be a less crazed version of romance for my daughter? But hon, I don't know much of it all- destiny, fate, love. But I know that most people say the ones worth fighting for are not the easy ones." My eyes exploded with emotion. I had heard many versions of that saying in my life and they all had to do with Logan- my not easy love. "All that said honey, don't let this undo everything you have worked for. It seems if all this time can't keep you two away, that I might as well give up hoping you can completely move beyond Neptune- but don't get stuck. Please."

I did not know how to respond. After all where I felt stuck was New York. "I'll try dad."

"That is all I can ask." He paused. "So it seems I owe your gentleman friend a thank you, for saving me and all."

I smiled, looking at the clock as I pulled my phone out. "I will text him."

Logan:

I stirred the spaghetti sauce again, putting the wooden spoon on a plate after. It felt funny cooking in the Mars' kitchen, it wasn't mine, but I had begun to learn it over the last few days. I wasn't much of a cook but I had been able to add spaghetti and meat sauce, stir fry and some grilling to my repertoire. I wanted her to have something good to eat and my spaghetti was my safest option. I knew- knowing her she probably had not eaten since the breakfast I got her and I wanted it to be ready when she got back. It also served as a distraction, to be able to go to the store and get the ingredients and prepare it. It kept my mind off the conversation I knew was coming.

She could read me, I knew that- she could see I was different today, and though she had not asked, I knew I had to bring the issue to light soon. And well, her answer was tormenting me.

My phone buzzed against the counter and I felt an ease fill me for a moment at the contact from her. I had not spoken with her much today, just when she texted me that her dad had woken up, and though I had gone years with no contact I found myself missing her.

Hey, visiting hours are ending soon, so if you want to come get me that would be great. Plus dad wanted to see you, feels he owes you a thank you.

I smiled. Be there soon.

I walked into the small ICU room, feeling all nerves flood through me as I watched them together. They had always been so close. They were all the other had for so long, and because of that I knew I had been the bad guy at times to him, and I couldn't blame him. I had done some stupid crap in my days- but what made me most nervous when I saw him, was how much I loved her. I wanted his approval desperately- I always had.

Mr. Mars saw me first, a smile on his face. "Come in, Logan." He motioned to me and I removed my hands from my pockets as I felt my nerves subside a tad.

"Mr. Mars, I am glad you are doing better." I said as I awkwardly stepped toward the bed, feeling like a teenage boy all over again. Veronica grabbed my hand, the contact shocking me. I wasn't sure if she had informed him of "us" and the fact that she felt comfortable to show the affection softened me more. I held her hand tightly and I watched as Keith seemed relaxed, his glare absent.

"Logan, listen." He said with serious tone. "I have been informed by my doctor and Veronica, that you risked your life to save mine." I tired to cut him off where he did not feel he had to continue, but he pushed through. "Thank you. This isn't the first time you have been there to help my family, and I greatly appreciate it."

"Sir, there is no reason to thank me."

"There is, and for watching out for Veronica while I have been in here." He looked into my eyes and I could see his gratitude. "Thank you."

Don't you know by now I would do anything for her? I chose other words than the ones playing in my head. "Always, sir."

Veronica smiled and leaned in to kiss her dad. "Visiting hours are over, but you better believe I will be back soon. SO behave and get better." She instructed like a mother.

"Yes mam." Keith returned the kiss. He reached his hand out for mine. "Logan, good to have you back around."

My throat tightened at all it's implications and the approval in his voice. I was getting everything I had hoped for, yet I could not enjoy it- the bomb I was about to drop I was scared would blow it all to hell.

"Thank you." I smiled forcefully through the painful realities. "Get better."

Veronica had stayed glued to my side as we made our way to the car- she seemed in-tune to my growing worry and I could see the wheels turning in her head. I had to tell her, as soon as we made it home, I would have to let the bomb explode and see what pieces were left in the after math. I was hoping she and I would be intact.

Veronica:

Only Logan could hold on to my hand in a way that screamed longing and desperation. The way his fingers traced over mine, and lingered on sensitive spots of my skin was electrifying and enticing. But the way he would hold on tight for a moment left my stomach in knots, like he was scared he was being pulled away from me. This was our only interaction in the car, except for our conversation abut my day with my dad. The air was growing tense and with each stroke of his finger against my skin I thought I would explode.

He parked the car, dropping his hand from mine as he gripped the steering wheel, shutting his eyes as he exhaled deeply. My eyes were on him now, I could feel the shift in the air, I was about to know his secret. "Veronica." His gruff voice shook.

"Yeah?" I could hear mine reciprocate the sound.

"I have something to tell you." The torment in his brown eyes was burning as he looked my way. "And I am not sure how you will take it or even what this is that we have right now. But if we are on the verge of a new chapter then you have to know."

"Okay." Was all I could manage. I had been on the end of receiving life changing news about Logan before, where it ruined everything and gutted me. I was hoping I never had to experience that pain again.

He looked ahead again. "My next deployment had been up in the air since the charges of Carrie's murder. I had not even thought to tell you before- before this happened." he motioned between us. "I just thought you were going back to New York, and I had no idea when we would speak again." He gnawed at his lip nervously. "But then it all changed- and with your dad hurt and all that going on I have been trying to find the right moment to tell you."

"Logan, what?" My voice cracked in anticipation.

"I leave for a 6 month deployment soon."

Everything inside of me fell as I looked at my hands loosely laid in my lap. Deployment meant so many things- he would be gone, he could get hurt, I could never see him again- each thought like a knife to the heart.

He continued, nervously his tone speeding up. "Veronica, I never even use to dread my deployments. It was what I did, my job. I had grown use to it, but-" His hand reached out for mine and I grabbed a hold quickly, turning myself to face him. "But-suddenly everything I ever wanted is sitting in my front seat- and I feel sick, because I have no desire to ever leave you."

I inhaled a deep breath as I studied him, the look of worry and panic so evident in his eyes, but the amount of love in them is what caught my attention. I was never letting this go again. "So how long do we have?"

He softened as he responded. "14 days."

"And you are gone 6 months?" I asked and he nodded. "Well, we have a lot of catching up to do then, if it is going to have to last us that long."

His mouth went ajar as it seemed all muscles in his body went limp. He stuttered as he spoke. "Wait- wait, what are you saying?" He looked unsure- like he was certain he had heard me wrong. Poor guy had been convinced I was running again.

I straightened my posture as I looked at him deeply, wanting him to have no doubt to where I stood with him. "Logan, I am in- all the way. You and me. I want this." His beautiful smile lit up his face. "That is if you want me?" I asked with a vulnerability that had rarely escaped from me.

He leaned forward, roughly grabbing the sides of my face as he leaned his head against mine. "I want nothing else."

"Me too." My voice whispered as our lips touched softly, the joy of our reuniting and the ache of our coming goodbye covering us.

He pulled back as he opened his car door and helped me out. I leaned my head against his shoulder as we slowly strolled up to the house, having to push the thoughts away that if I had not been so stubborn long ago- that we would never be in this situation.

"So two weeks to catch up on years worth of history?" I asked. "We have lots of work to do, Echolls. I don't see much sleep in your future or much time away from me, I am afraid."

He chuckled, the vibrating of his chest combined with the sound of his beating heart was comforting as my head was against it. "I can think of no better way to spend my last days here." He opened the door, still keeping an arm around me. "And good thing you and I have always been moving at a pace that other relationships cannot achieve. If anyone can make 14 days matter for all they are worth- it is you and me- I have no doubt."

I smiled at how true his words are. "Seems are oddness is playing to our advantage."

"Seems so." He returned the sweet smile as he ushered me to the table. "I've got to heat up dinner."

"Okay." I relaxed into the old chair as I could hear Logan open the fridge and then the microwave. I leaned into my elbows, as I peered back at him. "I am happy Logan." I blurted out, stunning him as he turned my way. He appreciated all that short sentence had meant, that was clear on his expressive face.

"Me too."

Our eyes held a moment as I cherished each second I had to take him in, memorizing each word and look -and he appeared to be doing the same. He and I had a unique connection. Most would say that strong of one would be too much to handle- the passion, the understanding, the jealousy, the all consuming fire. The way we were interlocked had been almost magical, as I swear since our lips first met we had been in the other's head. But I would not trade it- I had done ordinary, I had done neutral and stable. I wanted this- and all it had to offer. This was where I was the most complete- with him.

He sat the food in front of me, the aroma making my mouth water. "Spaghetti, yum." I said immediately bringing it to my mouth. He watched me carefully from across the table and smiled when I praised it. "Where did you get this? It is delicious."

He chuckled shyly. "Uh, I made it."

I looked down at the bowl and then up at him. "You made this?" he nodded as he took a bite. "Well, now I feel inferior. Aren't women supposed to be the good cooks?"

"Well we have never played by the rules, so I suppose it is okay." He quipped.

I smiled wide as I put my fork to it again, keeping my eyes on him adoringly. I found the irony of what hit me funny as I took in the scene. I had run as far as I could, transferred to another school, moved to the other side of the country, and had partaken in one of the hardest law programs in America. Yet all I had been looking for- what I needed- the key to my happiness- was sitting here with me at this table, eating dinner. I had it all along- and I had stupidly thrown it away for everything I thought I wanted.

My lip protruded out as I fought back the sadness and regret and he seemed oblivious as he dug into his food. I had wasted so many years, so many memories just like this- and caused more pain than ever should have been. Logan and I never broke up like others, seems when you are literally a part of the other person it leaves an unrepairable wound when separated.

I had spent so much time holding it back, so much time protecting myself- not looking out for him. I had never even told him I loved him. My heart fluttered before it released a gnawing pain. If there was anyone in this world who deserved to hear those three words from me- it was him.

They burned in my mind and mouth as they desperately wanted to escape, yet still my defense mechanisms fought against their release. I took a deep breath, I had wasted far too much time and left too many words unsaid- my eyes narrowed on him- I had to put him first for change. After all, we were living on a timer now.- I could almost see the large numbers counting down the hours, minutes and seconds we had left.

I opened my mouth and his eyes were on me now, almost like an alert of what was going to happen. There was that connection again.

"I love you, Logan." I smiled, as the words felt completely natural being said- it seems being directed towards him was the way it was meant to be. "I always have."